Exploring Exploring the Needs and Expectations of Red and White Cooperative Managers towards Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technology for Operational Data Analysis

Abstract

The Red and White Cooperative (Koperasi Merah Putih) represents a strategic initiative by the Indonesian government targeting the establishment of 80,000 cooperative units across all villages to strengthen local economies and shorten extended supply chains. Amidst the push for modernization and digitalization of cooperatives, artificial intelligence (AI) technology is being introduced as a tool to enhance efficiency and governance. However, AI implementation in cooperatives continues to face challenges, particularly regarding human resource readiness and managerial digital literacy. This exploratory qualitative study aims to identify the needs and expectations of Red and White Cooperative managers regarding AI utilization for operational data analysis. Employing a case study approach with semi-structured interviews of 12 cooperative managers across three regions, this research reveals that managers perceive significant potential in AI for automating transaction recording, membership analysis, and data-driven decision-making. However, the need for efficiency is balanced by concerns about accuracy, trust, and a sense of ownership over the cooperative management process. These findings enrich the understanding of AI acceptance within community-based organizations in developing countries and provide practical implications for the development of cooperative digital platforms and manager training programs.