Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an intriguing topic for many major corporations these days. In fact, just two years ago approximately 68% of these companies said that they were investing in looking into how AI can be utilized in their company, and now that number is closer to 95%. Still, for most, AI and its implications remain a complicated mystery small organizations don’t really understand.

What is AI? Artificial intelligence is intelligence demonstrated by machines as opposed to the natural intelligence evident in humans. Any device that can perceive its environment and take actions to reach a goal is considered operating with AI. These machines or computers mimic “cognitive” human functions such as learning and problem solving. The most common usage of the term is comprised of machine learning, deep learning, and natural language. While many fear that AI will replace too many human jobs, the debate continues. A 2017 Economist Intelligence Unit report indicated that 27% of executives believe that introducing AI to business will result in better decision making; 26% believe it will improve the customer experience; 29% believe it will improve operating efficiency; and 17% believe sales revenue would be positively affected.

“Everyone is talking about ‘AI’ these days, but most companies have no real idea of how to put it to use in their own business”, says Tim O’Reilly, O’Reilly Media, in an interview with Forbes.com. O’Reilly stresses that “each new technology revolution breeds new business leaders”, meaning that if you really want to capitalize on the AI revolution, you need to be forward thinking, and even willing to change your business model.

Some ways that small business may integrate AI includes:

  • AI can transcribe sales calls and compare the most successful reps calls vs. struggling sales reps. The software can analyze things such as word choice, or time spent listening vs. talking in order to develop a coaching method for reps who need help.
  • AI can take your “ideal customer” data set and search out others in the general population who fit that mold, greatly targeting your message to likely consumers. This technique has been used with wild success by Facebook in recent years.
  • AI can sort and categorize user feedback and then provide you with recommendations as to your proper market and how your product is faring in the marketplace.

The most expedient way to begin the conversation regarding artificial intelligence in your company is to capitalize on real intelligence. Everyone involved, from the management teams to the executives, need to comprehend the value of business intelligence and data comprehension. This will make it easier for them to utilize AI once it is officially part of their daily worklife. Be sure to:

  • Outline and communicate a roadmap of the process will help you to garner funding and support for your project. Further, you can show how successful organizations such as Facebook, Yahoo, Amazon, and Microsoft all use cognitive software with deep learning algorithms.
  • Discuss the costs involved. Remember that although the costs of implementing and utilizing the software may be low, hiring a data scientist to build the software into your organization will be costlier. Remember to build the personnel cost into your proposal. For most smaller organizations, implementing AI will require the solution to be developed from scratch based upon your needs. This takes time and patience.
  • Consider integrating artificial intelligence during a planned technology restructure. Start small, communicate goals, and be realistic about what your team members do not understand. Once you have identified the areas of knowledge gap, you can b ring in AI experts or consultants to educate employees.

Ready to get started? Call Alliance IT today. We understand that AI may seem overwhelming – and even a little weird  – to some. We will help you to demystify the process and utilize the best available technologies to grow your Sarasota area business.