AI and Automation- Are you Ready?

Every business has a computer and we're all being touched by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation. Right now, our connections to AI in particular, are generally small and sporadic. Be aware, the pace of change has already started to accelerate; quickly

We'll need to embrace AI rather than shy away from it. We can't be fearful that the computer taking over.

But, What is AI?

AI is short for Artificial Intelligence. AI is teaching computers how to think like humans to solve specific problems. AI uses huge amounts of data to get to a solution. Much more data than you or I would want to sift through. If you've used Cortana, Siri or Alexa then you've already seen AI in action. Ask Alexa “will I need my umbrella today?” and she's learnt to review the weather apps and meteorological information before answering with, hopefully, “no, not today”.

What is Automation?

Automation is having machines do the work that used to be done by humans. A bank ATM is a good example

The future of AI and automation can look scary. The roll-out of ATMs years ago, seemed scary at the time, but we all see how this automation helps us 24/7.  Automation isn't all bad; yes some jobs may be lost but new ones are generated through new business opportunities along the way.

Who knew we needed special gloves until Apple launched the i-Phone. We soon got used to using our fingers to swipe, and we discovered that wool didn't work! So first we had a new type of glove but then AI arrived in the form of Siri. Now we ask Siri when we can't swipe to do what we want done and she does it. More and more businesses are embracing AI and automation as technology improves and we get more comfortable with using them.

What is happening in your world right now that could be automated or benefit from some form of AI?

As part of your half yearly re-forecast - now is a good time to start looking at AI and automation to understand what impact it might have on your business and how you might be able to capitalise on the benefits AI and Automation will bring.