AI in Media: Transforming Content Creation for SMEs

AI is rewriting the rules of content creation. In 2025, 67% of media companies worldwide are using AI for some part of their content workflows, from automated video editing to generative copywriting.

But SMEs in media, marketing and production face different challenges than global studios:

• Too many AI tools to choose from - most unproven or short-lived
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• Concerns about compliance, copyright and token-based costs
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• Pressure to create more content, more quickly, without compromising quality

At AI Expert, we help SMEs cut through the noise with AI Readiness Assessments, AI Workshops and AI Roadmaps that reveal which tools will drive real creative and commercial results, and which to avoid.

What AI in Media Actually Means for Businesses

AI in media isn’t just about ChatGPT-style text generation. It includes:

• Automated video editing and captioning
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• AI-driven image and sound enhancement
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• Generative tools for copy, scripts, and design assets
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• Personalised content recommendations for audiences

For SMEs, these tools mean scaling content output without scaling headcount but only if chosen and implemented strategically. Our AI Workshops help identify where AI adds value (and where it doesn’t disrupt your creative edge).

Commercial Advantages of AI-Driven Content

AI can unlock huge benefits for SMEs in media and marketing:

• Speed: Automated editing and transcription can cut production timelines by 40–60%
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• Cost savings: AI reduces reliance on outsourcing repetitive creative tasks
  

• Personalisation: AI tailors content to audience segments, increasing engagement and conversions
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• Scalability: SMEs can produce more high-quality content with the same team size

Risks Every Media Business Should Watch

The opportunities are clear but so are the risks:

• Copyright uncertainty: Who owns AI-generated work? This remains legally unsettled in many markets
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• Vendor churn: Generative AI start-ups often fold or pivot, leaving SMEs stranded
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• Cost volatility: Token-based AI tools can spike costs when usage scales
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• Quality control: AI-generated content still needs human oversight to avoid errors or brand missteps

AI Expert’s AI compliance and AI Optimisation services ensure SMEs adopt tools responsibly, keeping creative quality high and risks low.

Where AI Is Already Transforming Media

• The BBC uses AI to transcribe, subtitle, and index archival footage, cutting manual effort by 80%
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• Buzzfeed experiments with AI-assisted quizzes and travel content - scaling output without adding staff
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• Adobe Firefly integrates generative AI into Creative Cloud, speeding up image and video production for small teams

These examples show that AI isn’t replacing creativity — it’s amplifying it for those who implement it strategically.

What’s Next for AI in Content Creation

Expect AI in media to become hyper personalised — delivering content tailored to individual users, platforms and even real time events. Tools like text-to-video generation are moving from prototype to production, enabling SMEs to create professional-grade video without studios.

The next hurdle? Regulation and trust. The EU AI Act and emerging copyright laws will shape how SMEs can use (and monetise) AI-generated content safely.

How AI Expert Helps SMEs in Media and Marketing

We guide SMEs through a phased process built to deliver lasting results:

AI Readiness Assessment → Honest snapshot of current capability and gaps

AI Workshop → Map media-specific opportunities and align leadership priorities

AI Roadmap → Clear plan detailing costs, timelines, and ROI projections

AI Implementation → Support integrating AI tools into content workflows

Ongoing optimisation and compliance → Ensure AI continues to perform and stays legally safe

Are You Ready to Scale Content Creation Without Scaling Cost?

AI can make SMEs more agile and competitive in media and marketing but only with a clear plan and the right tools.

Start by understanding your readiness. Take our free AI Readiness Assessment and see where AI can transform your content operations.

Take the AI Readiness Assessment →

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