Abdul Tawara
Research Details
Thesis Name
From E-Business to AI-Business: Architectures, Capabilities, and Governance for AI-Integrated E-Business Systems Across Australian SME EnterprisesThesis Abstract
The shift from e-business to AI-business is reshaping how organisations design, manage, and govern digital systems. In Australia, small, medium, and large enterprises increasingly recognise the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance competitiveness, customer experience, and operational resilience. Yet adoption remains uneven, with SMEs facing capability gaps, larger firms struggling with system integration, and all enterprises confronting new governance and compliance demands.
This research investigates the architectures, capabilities, and governance models required for successful AI-business adoption across Australian enterprises. It will identify AI functionalities that deliver the greatest business value, design scalable reference architectures adaptable to different organisational sizes, and assess governance mechanisms aligned with standards such as ISO/IEC 42001 and the EU AI Act. Employing a mixed-method design—systematic literature review, quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, and multi-case studies—the study will integrate statistical, thematic, and enterprise architecture analysis to generate practical and validated outcomes.
The research will produce two core contributions: (1) a reference architecture to guide the integration of AI into e-business systems, and (2) an AI-business maturity model to support capability development, compliance, and responsible innovation. The findings will advance academic knowledge while equipping Australian enterprises and policymakers with actionable strategies for transitioning from e-business to AI-business.
Why My Research is Important/Impacts
This research will generate significant academic, industrial, and societal impact by advancing knowledge and providing actionable frameworks for the transition from e-business to AI-business in Australia. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the findings will offer accessible architectures and AI-as-a-Service pathways that lower the cost and complexity of adoption, helping these businesses remain competitive in increasingly digital markets. For large enterprises, the research will deliver reference architectures and governance models to guide the integration of advanced AI capabilities such as predictive analytics, intelligent automation, and multi-agent systems into existing business systems.
At a policy and governance level, the study will align AI-business practices with international frameworks, particularly ISO/IEC 42001 and the EU AI Act, supporting the development of trustworthy and auditable AI governance practices in Australian enterprises. This will provide guidance for regulators, industry associations, and government programs aiming to accelerate digital transformation while ensuring compliance, ethics, and accountability.
Academically, the research will contribute to the fields of Artificial Intelligence, Information Systems, and Enterprise Architecture by producing new theory and practice models, including an AI-business reference architecture and an AI-business maturity model. Practically, the outcomes will support workforce upskilling, improve supply chain resilience, and foster sustainable innovation across industries. Ultimately, the project will strengthen Australia’s digital economy, enhance regional competitiveness, and position Australian enterprises to thrive in the era of AI-business.
