AI to boost efficiency, reshape chip firms’ structures

Artificial intelligence is expected to boost efficiency, streamline decision-making and reshape the organizational structure of chip companies, while increasing demand for higher-skilled engineers, said Sun Yumin, an executive from Silergy.

He made the remarks during a speech at the Hong Kong Web3 Festival while discussing the profound impact of AI on chip enterprises.

Sun said AI can automate a wide range of tasks traditionally handled by integrated circuit designers, including layout design, optimization and large-scale data analysis, helping companies improve efficiency and reduce management costs.

He noted that AI can also strengthen business decision-making by analyzing sales data, supply chains and market trends, allowing companies to better forecast demand, optimize inventory and manage risks.

"The advantages of AI decision-making are speed, comprehensiveness and objectivity," Sun said.

According to Sun, the integration of AI will lead to major changes in corporate culture, organizational structure and working methodologies, with chip enterprises expected to become increasingly flat as some basic functions are gradually replaced by AI tools.

"The organizational structure of enterprises will become flatter," he said.

Moreover, Sun said AI is unlikely to fully replace skilled IC designers, as engineers will still be needed to verify and effectively use AI tools and algorithms. In some cases, demand for such talent may even rise, he added.

To adapt to these changes, chip companies need to rethink their internal structures, strengthen employees' digital and data-analysis capabilities, improve cross-department collaboration and foster a culture more open to change and innovation, Sun said.