I see two main areas where AI is used in a business. This is an arbitrary distinction, but I think a useful one.
1) It is an IT function: Your IT systems should be revamped to benefit from better software engineering. Whatever business you are in, an AI approach can improve efficiency. Remember AI is nothing more than “cleverer software”. Software that makes you say “I wish I had thought it that”. It’s not business as usual anymore. However you designed your IT systems 5 years ago, they can be improved. It’s a different mindset that is needed in the design. When you spec out your requirements, your IT consultants need to guide you through the new way of designing software.
We find many businesses are not ready for AI. That’s not fine anymore: Their competitors are ready and doing it. Look how Uber changed the transport industry. They only used a little bit of AI. Look at AirBNB and the accommodation industry. Since those days, AI has grown and winners will take advantage of new ideas, new technology.
2) The second area where AI is making an impact is the non-IT users. I’m referring to general staff, directors, managers, admin people. Their way of working needs to change. Just as the upheaval of Covid forced us to work remotely, AI is forcing you to re-assess how you work in the first place. It’s a huge pity that AI is so soon after Covid, because many people are still struggling to adjust to remote, and then in-office work while AI is suddenly thrown at them. It gives no time for reflection or understanding how AI is going to change EVERYTHING.
The problem is the users of the IT systems mentioned in (1) above are the ones collaborating with IT to design the specifications of new software and they are currently unable to give input to how AI MUST be implemented until they know what AI can do for them.
It’s not that difficult, but it is a mindset change.
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