Exploring the Indian MSME perspective on integrating AI-enabled solutions in the recruitment process: an analytical hierarchy (AHP) approach

The paper identifies the barriers to artificial intelligence (AI) adoption in the hiring process of Indian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which is an under-researched area. It makes a significant contribution to the upcoming AI-based solutions recruitment process in practice and research. The study identifies the barriers and sub-barriers to adopting artificial intelligence in the hiring process of MSMEs and then assesses their weights utilising the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) technique, which further helps in prioritising the barriers. The findings reveal that environmental and organisational barriers are the two most crucial barriers affecting AI adoption in the hiring process of MSMEs. Moreover, lack of government support, lack of competitive pressure, lack of adequate IT infrastructure, and performance-to-cost value are the top four sub-barriers that are most important for driving AI adoption in MSMEs. The results can help HR managers in decision-making for adopting AI-enabled solutions in the hiring process.