If your idea of artificial intelligence (AI) is still just ChatGPT, then you’re missing out on some highly useful business tools available these days. Like many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) who have adopted this technology, you too can streamline your operations, make well-informed decisions, and improve your customer service with the help of AI.
However, your AI tools can only deliver powerful results if your business foundation is strong. So, how can you tell if your business is AI-ready?
You have clean, accessible, and useful data
AI won’t work unless you have robust and reliable data. Just like how a car can’t run properly without good, clean fuel, an AI tool won’t be efficient if your data is disorganized and inconsistent.
You need to ask yourself:
- Do we collect and store important data needed from our customers, operations, and finances?
- Is our data accurate and updated?
- Can we easily access our data to analyze it?
If you still use spreadsheets scattered across different employee desktops and use a variety of software that do not “talk” to each other, then you need to do a data cleanup. You can partner with a managed IT services provider (MSP) who can help centralize and prepare your data so you can use it in a smarter, more efficient way.
You’ve automated the basics
AI works best on optimizing systems that are already automated. You won’t get the most out of AI if you still rely on manual data entry and paper files.
For example, if you want to use AI for customer support chat, you need to have an automated help desk system in place. Or, if you want to use AI for financial forecasting, your accounting process should be digital and automated.
You can start by automating routine tasks with tools such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems or cloud-based management platforms. With that digital groundwork laid, AI can then supercharge your operations.
Your team is open to change and knows why AI matters
People are often the major roadblock to adopting AI, usually due to the fear of losing their jobs or a sense of insecurity compared to their tech-savvy colleagues.
Communication is key to addressing employee concerns about AI. Explain to your team why you’re using the technology, and assure them that AI will help them work better, not replace them.
Starting small can also help them better get used to AI. Choose practical cases (such as improving customer response times). Then, involve more and more of your teams in the process. That way, they appreciate AI as an asset, not a threat.
You use AI to solve problems
Don’t go into AI just because you’re enamored by its cutting-edge image. An AI solution without a problem is a cart-before-the-horse situation.
Instead, ask the following to identify where AI can create real, measurable value for your organization:
- Are there bottlenecks and inefficiencies that are costing you time and money?
- What repetitive tasks can be automated?
- What benefits do we get from better forecasting and faster decision-making?
For example, an HVAC company may use AI to predict equipment failure in order to prevent it from happening. Or a law firm may use AI to sort out thousands of documents much faster than any human could. Remember: start with a clear problem, then work backward to look for an appropriate AI approach.
You have the right IT support
AI isn’t a “set it and forget it” solution. You need to integrate it with your current systems, making sure your data remains secure. Then there’s also monitoring and periodic updates involved. You need to be ready to take on AI, which means having the right IT support.
For an SMB, this may entail partnering with an MSP like NetQuest. Our experts can help businesses build the right foundation for AI success. We’ll assess where you are, recommend practical tools, and guide you through AI implementation, all while making sure there’s minimal disruption to your daily operations.
If you’re unsure if your business is AI-ready, reach out to us today. We’re ready to help you, from assessment to software purchases and data management, so that your tech investments truly pay off.
