Customers perception of Artificial Intelligence as Chatbots in CRM

Abstract: ABSTRACT  Title: Customers perception of Artificial Intelligence as Chatbots in CRM  Subject: Bachelor thesis in business administration, 15 hp  Authors: Hanna Trägårdh & Elsa Kuylenstierna  Supervisor: Klaus Solberg Söilen  Examiner: Ulf Aagerup  Keywords: Artificial intelligence, Chatbots, Customer Relationship Management, Generation Z, Generation Y  Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the perception Swedish customers from Gen Z and Gen Y have of companies using chatbots in customer relationship management. Furthermore the study will analyze if the different generational groups perceive chatbots in different ways. The study also focuses on finding out what role chatbots play in terms of CRM.  Methodology: In this study a deductive research approach was used where the empirical study was collected through a survey. The survey had 212 respondents, 100 of them were between 15 and 25 years old and 112 were between 26 and 44 years old.  Conclusion: Gen Z and Gen Y have similar opinions about how they perceive chatbots. Both Gen Z and Gen Y prefer communicating with a human since chatbots are not living up to their expectations. However, they are optimistic that chatbots have the potential to improve customer services to the better. Companies need to make sure that chatbots create value for customers and not only for companies themselves. Chatbots need to keep developing and make progress to be beneficial for customers to use.  Implications: This study can contribute with new perspectives about chatbots and customer relationships that can be a big advantage for companies when implementing chatbots for their business. The study brings attention to the unexplored issue of Gen Z and Gen Y’s perception in this matter. This study can also be helpful for further research within the subject area.