Recent research by the British Chambers of Commerce suggests that 43% of small businesses have no plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence. James Ferraby, director of Leicestershire-based Digital Planning, sets out why they should reconsider.
Last month’s article in Business Network was something of a revelation to me.
Research by the Insights Unit at the BCC suggested that four in 10 SMEs have no plans to introduce AI. This rose to 50% in B2C firms. My eyebrow raised further when I read that only 2% of respondents believed that introducing AI would decrease their productivity.
This is quite something for a technological advance that is expected to lead to task automation and markets creation on the scale of the introduction of the steam engine during the Industrial Revolution.
Clearly, it may be a case of not being able to envisage the potential applications of AI. My own SME specialises in complex digital automations in professional services, healthcare, and manufacturing, so I’m perhaps trained to see the potential for change.
For that reason, the article made me consider how AI transformation could be broken down into three tiers. In this way, there’s an entry level to include all SMEs.
1. Introduce AI tools to everyday tasks
Our typical entry-level project looks for straightforward AI applications that any SME can implement with minimal effort. Well-known generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT and image creation software such as DALL-E, can provide immediate value.
These platforms can automate content creation, streamline communication, and enhance marketing efforts. Typical applications include using AI to generate marketing graphics or automate responses to common customer inquiries.
This saves time and resources, allowing businesses to focus on core activities. SMEs should view these tools as essential, low-hanging fruit that can quickly improve efficiency and engagement without requiring significant investment.
2. Enhance existing management systems
Once SMEs are more comfortable with practical entry-level uses of generative AI, they can begin to consider ways that AI tools can enhance existing business processes.
For example, many SMEs have vast amounts of internal documentation that is often underutilised. It exists but is not used by staff – usually because the right information can not be located easily.
Integrating custom AI chatbots can transform static documents into interactive resources. It means SMEs can create chatbots to answer employee questions – all based on existing documentation. AI makes it easier for people to follow company processes and check details of policies. This not only optimises resource use but also enhances the user experience and compliance by instantly providing accurate information.
3. Customise AI solutions to automate
The third tier involves more advanced AI applications. This might be for complex operations, with many moving parts, such as resource allocation or process automation.
AI-driven resource management tools can optimise how businesses allocate personnel, equipment, and budgets. Tools can be trained to make decisions in any way the SME needs.
By analysing data and making real-time adjustments, these tools reduce costs and improve efficiency. For example, AI can predict demand fluctuations and adjust resource allocation accordingly, ensuring that SMEs remain agile and responsive to market changes.
In summary, AI can seem daunting. It can come with a lot of technical jargon. It may not seem immediately accessible.
However, there are ways to step onboard. And it will lead to significant productivity for SMEs. I’d certainly not agree with the 2% of BCC survey respondents who think AI will increase workload. And they risk being left beyond competitors who do make the change.
