Denizhan Sayimer
Title: AI Transitions in Estonian IT Companies: Perceptions, Integration, and Anticipation among Employers and Employees
Supervisor: Dr. Johanna Vallistu
Opponent: Dr. Amirouche Moktefi
Defense: 9 June 2025
Abstract: This thesis examines the similarities and disparities between employer perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) readiness and employee-reported skill gaps within Estonia’s Information Technology (IT) sector, analyzing their impact on AI implementation success. The Republic of Estonia has been at the forefront of digital transformation since its independence from the Soviet Union. As humanity passes through yet another technological shift with the emergence of artificial intelligence, Estonia presents itself as a unique scene to examine the perceptions and projections surrounding this paradigm. Using mixed-method research, which comprises a survey of 43 IT professionals and semi-structured interviews with six organizational representatives, the study uncovers both differences and commonalities in the perceptions of these groups. The findings of this research are examined under five main themes: understandings of AI; specific use cases of AI; return on investment (ROI) projections; workforce development; and ethical implications. The findings underscore the necessity for Estonian IT companies to align their strategic initiatives with workforce development programs to avert potential economic losses stemming from delayed or unsuccessful adoption. Finally, this dissertation presents a series of policy recommendations that address the research findings and provide possible solutions.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Estonian IT Sector, Workforce Adaptation, Innovation Adoption, Future of Work
