In a world moving faster than a speeding bullet train, it may seem a little daunting to embrace the technology that could be the reason we become obsolete. However, there is a way to implement technology, specifically Artificial Intelligence (AI) into your business, that will enable your workers and yourself to not only keep your jobs, but perform at a higher level.
Embracing technology is all-important for business and life, but we do need to ensure that we do not become it, and it, us. In a connected world, it’s the human element that is, and will always be, the most important aspect of our experience of life. More important than teaching about technology and AI, is teaching the mind-set of growth. If we can develop that culture of growth, the appropriate implementation of technology will enhance our work, and improve the product for the customer and employee, not destroy it.
If movies are anything to go by, AI will soon take over the world and leave us destitute and governed by machines. But the truth is that reality is quite different. Although this technology is already helping shape decisions and reaping greater financial rewards for businesses around the globe, it is not happening as quickly as one might assume.
There are a few reasons for this. Perhaps people feel the stagnation of their minds, as they have to think less and remember less. Maybe we feel the pull towards other humans as we engage with yet another automated system on the phone or at the bank. Of course technology has it’s benefits: Online shopping, online banking, search engine personalization, automated reminders, and so on. Perhaps the idea behind the implementation of technology in so many areas of our lives was not to replace the human element, but to create more free time and energy to pursue more meaningful endeavours, to connect more meaningfully with the environment, each other and ourselves.
In a South African survey completed in 2017, a bank, which remains anonymous, surveyed thousands of customers to ascertain their level of content with a new automated approach to online banking and calling in to the branches. The majority of users said that although they appreciated the automated service most of the time, when it came to complaints or needing help, they would prefer a human to speak to.
Many businesses understand the importance of technology. I believe this is to help employees reach their full potential in the workplace by using tools to enhance the work being delivered.
The fact of the matter is this: AI is coming. It is the way forward for businesses who wish to create a better customer experience, better staff experience and better revenue. However tools are needed in order to make the transition a successful and prosperous one. With that in mind, look at your company’s individual structure when deciding on an implementation strategy. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when using AI and so using another company’s approach will most likely not work for you.
And remember:
Perhaps one of the most vital tools a company can use is education. From the very top leadership down to the end user, all staff need to understand and be on-board for the implementation of AI. Some companies have even launched internal AI academies that teach theory and practical components. (It is wise to use external specialists to write your curriculum, however you will need to ensure that the content matches your situation perfectly.) Staff can engage in classes, workshops and site visits to other successful companies that have implemented AI. Important tools to teach employees for future development are creative problem solving, embracing a growth mind-set and being solutions driven.
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