Work

Exploring the impact of EU tendering operations on future AI governance and standards in pharmaceuticals

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Objective This study aims to explore the integration and impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly focusing on its application in Tender Management (TM) processes. It seeks to understand how AI can enhance operational efficiency, address challenges, and shape future governance and ethical frameworks in the sector. Methods The research employs a comparative case study methodology, analyzing four European pharmaceutical companies, two of which have integrated AI into their TM processes. The study utilizes in-depth interviews, document analysis, and the Delphi technique with a panel of experts to refine themes related to AI governance, ethics, and impact on organizational functions. It focuses on GenAI and TM role in content creation, operational excellence, and addressing compliance issues. Results The findings demonstrate that AI significantly improves efficiency in TM processes. Companies using AI in tendering exhibit enhanced real-time decision-making and better stakeholder engagement. The research also reveals a need for more comprehensive AI case studies in the pharmaceutical industry. Furthermore, it highlights the challenges posed by the conservative approach to technology adoption in the sector, largely due to regulatory and compliance concerns. Conclusions The integration of AI in pharmaceutical TM is a key driver of operational efficiency and strategic innovation. The study underscores the importance of developing robust governance and ethical frameworks to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. It suggests that while AI offers transformative potential, its integration requires careful consideration of ethical, regulatory, and compliance aspects to ensure sustainable and responsible implementation in the pharmaceutical industry.

Source: Computers & Industrial Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.cie.2024.110655

Authors: Antonio Pesqueira, Andreia de Bem Machado, Sama Bolog, Rúben Pereira, Maria José Sousa

Institutions: Iscte – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, University of Basel, Instituto de Novas Tecnologias, Institute for Systems Engineering and Computers

Language: English

Topic: Ethics and Social Impacts of AI

Subfield: Safety Research

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,440