Metropolitan managers' perspectives on Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies

This qualitative study examines the perspectives of 60 public authorities from six metropolitan areas: Copenhagen, Helsinki, Bucharest, Milan, Prague, and Berlin, regarding the use of AI technologies in public service provision. The research explores both the potential benefits and challenges associated with AI implementation. Many respondents expressed positive attitudes towards AI as a tool to improve public service delivery, while others voiced concerns about AI's developmental stage. A portion of the participants indicated that their lack of familiarity and technological literacy regarding AI was a barrier to its effective adoption. This highlights the need for training programs to equip local authorities with the skills to utilize AI in enhancing public services. The study also analyzes the data using MAXQDA software to categorize themes and provide structured insights. The findings emphasize the importance of preparing metropolitan managers for AI integration and offer strategic proposals for its successful implementation in public administration. © 2025, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved.