{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/68b8c9d9093397eb0556f37f/6a21046f3d098b7011425de2?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"What’s holding Kiwi SMEs back from AI? James Bergin on Practical Ways to Harness AI’s Business Value","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/68b8c9d9093397eb0556f37f/1780548565335-4719ad67-4b9b-4eb4-82bb-b4dd04cc197e.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>Bridget checks in with James Bergin, Xero’s Tech Research and Advocacy Executive GM on the state of AI use amongst New Zealand SMEs. Bridget and James explore what these businesses are actually using AI for, and practical ways to shift this use towards consistent, meaningful value.</p><p><br></p><p>Delving into Xero’s TechWeek 2026 research, the pair draw on the feedback from Kiwi SMEs to identify how these businesses are grouping together to form four approach-to-AI archetypes. In this conversation, James shares the flow-on effects of these different beliefs, and the biggest barriers and opportunities for SMEs as AI capabilities develop at pace.</p><p><br></p><p>The ambition of Kiwi SMEs is clear, but what is holding them back from confidently harnessing AI?</p><p><br></p><p>Bridget and James look to the future, as well as identifying where businesses have voiced needing support.</p>","author_name":"Presented by Xero"}