Businesses can’t seem to get away from the Artificial Intelligence (AI) conversation.
Machines that can perform tasks as if they were humans can be powerful tools in any company, facilitating better decision-making, improved workplace safety, increased productivity, and taking repetitive tasks off employees’ already full plates.
Let’s look at these benefits in more detail below to get a complete picture of how Artificial Intelligence tools are revolutionizing workplaces everywhere.
Complete Repetitive Tasks More Efficiently
Although AI tools can’t think creatively and complete complex tasks, they can handle repetitive tasks your employees may find burdensome.
For example, automated customer relationship management (CRM) software can automatically collect and organize customer data. A cloud storage platform can automate backing up your data and software. AI-powered supply chain solutions, like barcode scanners, enable real-time data collection and transfer to your cloud platform to support more efficient picking, packing, and shipping methods.
Handing repetitive, mundane tasks off to AI tools frees you and your employees up for what needs your creativity and human touch.
Empower Decision-Making
AI tools can collect and process huge datasets. In processing these datasets, these tools spit out meaningful insights that business owners can use to make insightful decisions about how to elevate their operations.
For example, with the help of an AI recruitment tool, you can collect data about candidates that apply for your open positions. The tool sifts through this data based on what you’re looking for in a certain position to show you the best matches. This information can inform your decision about who to interview.
Whatever data your AI tools collect, you can use it to make more productive decisions in your business.
Improve Workplace Safety
No matter the industry or workplace, employees face safety hazards —whether it’s taking on a dangerous task or trying to navigate a highly stressful work environment. These hazards may result in employee injuries, which can cost businesses a lot of money — both in lawsuits and lost working wages.
Improving workplace safety is crucial to avoid such an expense. AI can play an important role in bettering workplace safety.
For example, dangerous, repetitive tasks, like bricklaying in construction, can be handed off to an automation tool to keep workers out of harm’s way. AI may also be able to detect hazards, such as chemical spills before they become a real issue. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) tools can enhance safety training programs by making them more immersive.
Increase Worker Productivity
With the help of Artificial Intelligence taking over repetitive tasks, employees will have time for more meaningful tasks. When employees find meaning in their work, they’re more likely to perform at their peak and be productive.
In addition, employee productivity can improve when they work alongside AI tools. They can learn from and use the data AI tools provide. Employees can get creative tasks done, while AI tools handle the mundane ones. AI tools offer one perspective while your employees offer others, giving your team the depth and diversity it needs to solve problems efficiently.
Workers can be much more productive when they partner with AI tools rather than resist them.
Tips for Incorporating Artificial Intelligence Tools Into Your Business
AI’s impact on your business and workers is undeniable. But how positive its impact is depends on how you incorporate these tools. We suggest doing an audit first, thoroughly researching your options, and providing extensive training once you’ve implemented your AI tools.
Here’s more on each of these tips.
Do an Audit First
There is never a time when you should incorporate Artificial Intelligence tools because they’re trending or because you read somewhere they could be beneficial in business. The tools you incorporate must solve a business challenge and make sense for your operation.
Auditing your processes first will help you determine this. It may take some time, but go through all processes and make notes about what’s working and what isn’t. Highlight what parts of the process could benefit from an AI-powered tool.
Once you go through each process, choose what you should prioritize in terms of where you will implement Artificial Intelligence tools. Think about the business goals you’re trying to achieve right now and what it will take to implement each tool.
After that, move on to thorough research.
Thoroughly Research Options
You may be tempted to go with an AI tool a fellow business owner suggests. But don’t do it. It’s much wiser to thoroughly research your options yourself to ensure they’re the right fit for your business.
If you don’t have a specific tool in mind yet, start with a Google search like “AI tools for (insert business or process).” It will bring up a list of tools for what you’re looking for. Dive into the details of each one, from what the tool offers to how much it costs to the training provided.
When you’ve narrowed down your choices to your top ones, request demos. Have a sales associate walk you through all the features and functions of the tools so you know exactly how they can work in your business.
Thoroughly researching your AI tool options is the only way to ensure you choose the most suitable ones.
Provide Detailed Training
Providing detailed training on how to use the Artificial Intelligence tools you implement is critical for their effectiveness in your workplace. People are naturally resistant to change, your employees included. Not only that, people learn at different paces and in different ways.
So, you can’t just give your employees a handout on how to use a tool and call it good. They won’t learn that way — let alone be open to the tool in the first place. Instead, provide detailed training that accommodates the learning needs of all your employees.
Offer in-person, online, and hybrid training options. Break down what needs to be learned into simple steps your employees can digest and put into practice. Be willing to work with employees that need extra assistance. Finally, give everyone enough time to master the tools.
FAQ
A: Artificial intelligence tools are software applications that leverage advanced algorithms and machine learning to automate tasks, enhance decision-making, and streamline processes. They positively impact workers by reducing repetitive and mundane tasks, freeing time for more meaningful work, and improving productivity and efficiency.
A: AI-powered chatbots significantly benefit workers in customer service roles by handling routine customer inquiries, providing instant responses, and managing high volumes of customer interactions. This allows workers to focus on more complex and emotionally engaging customer issues, improving customer satisfaction and reducing stress for the workforce.
A: Yes, AI tools can be crucial in upskilling and professional development for workers. These tools can analyze employees’ skill sets, identify knowledge gaps, and recommend personalized training programs. Additionally, AI-driven virtual tutors and learning platforms can offer continuous, accessible, and tailored learning experiences to help workers adapt to changing job requirements and advancements in their fields.
A: AI-powered analytics tools gather and analyze vast amounts of data in real time, providing valuable insights to businesses. This data-driven decision-making process benefits employees by allowing them to make more informed and accurate choices. Employees can use these insights to optimize their workflows, identify potential challenges, and develop strategies that increase job satisfaction and overall success within the organization.
A: AI-driven automation technologies can lead to job role transformations rather than complete replacements. While certain repetitive tasks may become automated, workers often transition to more strategic, creative, or complex roles that require human skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. As AI tools increase productivity and efficiency, businesses can thrive and grow, providing more opportunities for workers in various sectors, ultimately bolstering job security.