Fiverr, a leading online marketplace, has released its seventh Business Trends Index, revealing a significant surge in the demand for AI expertise. The report highlights a skills shortage in the tech industry, making it challenging for businesses to attract and retain talented professionals, particularly those with AI expertise.
Among the sectors experiencing the highest growth on the Fiverr platform is “Accounting and Finance,” which has witnessed an impressive 835 percent increase in demand over the past six months. This surge reflects a clear need for AI and machine learning technologies to streamline financial processes and optimize operations.
The report also highlights the increasing trend of AI adoption in creative industries. In the UK, searches related to AI art have surged by a remarkable 6,223 percent in the past six months. This suggests that businesses in the creative sector are increasingly exploring the use of AI technologies to drive innovation and create new products.
Bukki Adedapo, UK Country Manager at Fiverr, expressed excitement about the growing adoption of AI on a wider scale and the resilience of UK businesses during challenging times. Despite the economic turbulence caused by the pandemic, Fiverr’s data indicates a significant increase in the creation of new businesses in the UK. Business Naming services have seen a 51 percent uptick, while Website Development has experienced a remarkable 92 percent increase over the past six months. These figures demonstrate the confidence of UK businesses in their ability to thrive even in uncertain economic conditions.
The Business Trends Index reveals that businesses and freelancers are adapting to the challenges posed by the pandemic, with many turning to technology, including AI, to navigate the changing landscape. The rise in demand for AI services showcases the growing recognition of the benefits that these technologies offer, from automating mundane tasks to enhancing decision-making processes.
Alexia Pedersen, VP of EMEA at O’Reilly, emphasized the need to address the growing digital skills gap. She highlighted the importance of organizations investing in creating a highly skilled workforce and employees prioritizing their learning and development to become invaluable assets to their companies. By embracing AI and other emerging technologies, businesses can position themselves for success in the evolving world.
In summary, Fiverr’s Business Trends Index underscores the increased demand for AI expertise across various sectors and the growing recognition of AI’s potential benefits. As businesses adapt to the changing landscape, those quick to embrace AI and other emerging technologies are likely to gain a competitive advantage in the future.
