Navigating Hesitant Adoption: Unveiling Barriers And Enablers for Generative AI Adoption By Mid-Level Leaders

Generative AI (Gen AI) holds significant promise for private sector organizations; however, its adoption by mid-level leaders, who are managers with frontline leaders reporting to them, is crucial to the success of digital transformation efforts. Many mid-level leaders engage with Gen AI only sporadically, superficially, or with limited confidence, reducing its potential organizational impact. Without clear insight into what both hinders and enables adoption at this level of the hierarchy, companies risk underutilizing their technology investments and falling short of key performance goals. This qualitative research aims to investigate the nuanced factors influencing the adoption of Gen AI at the critical managerial level, utilizing the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) as the theoretical framework. Through a qualitative approach comprising a qualifying survey and in-depth interviews with mid-level managers, this study examines the interplay of individual, technological, and organizational dynamics that enable or hinder Gen AI adoption. The study further investigates how mid-level leaders can act as key enablers, effectively influencing their teams of frontline leaders to embrace and utilize Gen AI. The findings of this research aim to contribute actionable insights for organizations to bridge the gap in technology adoption at the mid-level leader level, ensuring better alignment with digital transformation goals. By shedding light on the drivers and barriers to Gen AI adoption, this study strives to understand a culture of technological confidence and sophistication among mid-level leaders.