The study examined extent of application of Automated Machine Learning (AML) and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in enhancing the performance of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The study was motivated by the growing importance of the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in improving business efficiency, decision-making, and competitiveness. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised 15,000 registered SMEs in Ebonyi State, from which a sample of 389 SME owners was determined using the Taro Yamane formula. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The instrument was validated by experts, while cluster reliability coefficients of 0.80 and 0.84 were obtained using Cronbach Alpha. Out of the 389 copies of the questionnaire administered, 375 were duly completed and returned. Data was analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions and one-way ANOVA was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that Automated Machine Learning was moderately applied in enhancing SME performance. SMEs moderately utilized AML for decision-making, operational efficiency, sales forecasting, customer engagement, and revenue growth. Similarly, Robotic Process Automation was moderately applied, with a cluster mean of 2.59, indicating its use in automating routine tasks, improving efficiency, reducing errors, and lowering operational costs. The study further found that years of business experience did not significantly influence SME owners’ ratings on the application of AML and RPA, as all ANOVA p-values exceeded the 0.05 level of significance. It was concluded that although AML and RPA contribute to improved operational efficiency and business performance, their adoption among SMEs in Ebonyi State remains moderate due to financial, technical and infrastructural constraints. It was recommended that increased digital capacity building, improved access to affordable AI solutions, and supportive government policies should be provided to encourage wider adoption of AI automation technologies among SMEs.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Digital Transformation, Ebonyi State, Operational Efficiency, SME Performance, automated machine learning, robotic process automation
