Success stories in artificial intelligence often involve large-scale projects requiring significant resources: demand forecasting systems, quality control systems, etc. Is AI only accessible to large companies with the means to initiate such projects?
Not at all. There are several ways to integrate artificial intelligence into your processes without needing to invest colossal amounts. Your project may not make headlines, but it can still provide interesting benefits in the short and medium term. Here are a few options available to you.
Artificial intelligence is not an end in itself. It is important to start by establishing a digital strategy aligned with your business strategy. This step is crucial as it allows you to target opportunities that will truly add value to your business.
1. Adopt Software That Integrates Artificial Intelligence
The simplest option to integrate AI into your business is to adopt software that already incorporates it. For example:
- Microsoft Copilot: This assistant uses generative AI to help create presentations, write email responses, and generate document summaries. It integrates seamlessly with applications such as PowerPoint, Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams. It is an interesting option if you are already using the Microsoft suite.
- Google Workspace with Gemini: Google offers a similar assistant, formerly known as Google Duet AI, which integrates with all applications in the Google Workspace suite.
- Fellow: This assistant helps you schedule meetings, records them, takes notes, summarizes them, and lists follow-up actions. It also provides statistics, such as each person’s speaking time during meetings (My favorite feature!). These notes can be shared with other participants, both internal and external to the company.
2. Integrate Generative AI Tools Like ChatGPT
Generative AI is an interesting option if well planned. Despite its name, this technology can actually undermine your team’s creativity if misused (Article: Can Generative AI Harm Your Creativity?).
Before choosing a tool, test several models such as:
- ChatGPT
- Claude Sonnet 3.5 from Anthropic
- Gemini from Google
Some companies are also starting to offer interfaces allowing you to access multiple models at once. In short, take the time to properly identify your needs and use cases to choose the right technology for your business.
It is important to establish governance for artificial intelligence within your company. Setting clear policies regarding the use of these tools should be part of your planning.
3. Launch Several Small-Scale Projects
The success of your AI projects is closely linked to your change management. Smaller projects, targeting a single department for example, can help you gradually adapt to the technology. By demonstrating quick wins, you build your team’s trust and facilitate the transition to larger projects.
A single small-scale project will not provide you with a competitive advantage, but several well-aligned small projects can. This is an excellent way to de-risk your investments. The key lies in having a well-defined digital strategy upfront to choose the right projects.
4. Transform Your Business Model
According to McKinsey, transforming a specific area of your business, such as marketing or procurement, with AI can provide a competitive advantage. This approach is ideal for large companies due to the significant investments required, both in capital and labor. It also involves creating PODs (multidisciplinary teams) and developing internal technical skills. The benefits are enormous but come with high risks.
Conclusion
Integrating AI into your business does not always require massive investments. By adopting AI-integrated software, using generative AI tools, launching small projects, or transforming your business model, you can leverage the benefits of AI. The key is to start by establishing a digital strategy aligned with your business strategy.
Generative AI was used to optimize this article for SEO
