intelligent

AI offers an opportunity for SMEs to compete with bigger players , if they can access the skills , knowledge and resources to embrace them . Already , AI is driving workplace efficiency . Fiftyfour percent of people BSI polled said AI can be used most effectively to take on tasks humans don ’ t have time for . AI ’ s ability to digest and distil data at pace is seeing traditionally timeconsuming tasks be automated or simplified , from billing to managing customer information . For SMEs , the prize could be the ability to deliver as efficiently as if they had a workforce triple the size .

Similarly , the scale of the supply chain means processing relevant data at speed is arguably beyond human capacity . In 2021 McKinsey calculated that AI-enabled supply chain management had enabled adopters to improve inventory levels by 35 % and service levels by 65 % – suggesting huge possibilities for everyone from carriers to consignees .

Elsewhere , BSI found that 58 % of people now communicate with a service provider online via an automated chatbot , enabling productivity gains whereby AI leaves only the most challenging queries to humans . And AI is helping organisations to navigate the sustainability landscape . According to BCG , those using automated solutions for emissions measurements are 2.2 times more likely to measure emissions comprehensively .

In recruitment , AI is helping organisations enhance diversity . A US study looked at Machine Learning in hiring . The algorithm found directors who were not friends of management had smaller networks and had different backgrounds . As these tools become widely available , there is a clear opportunity for SMEs to use AI to create inclusive workplaces in which people can thrive .

We ’ re only at the beginning . In construction , AI is expected to play an important role in improving safety . For all businesses , AI could be a powerful tool against cyberthreats , allowing issues to be identified far quicker or even before they become significant , without taking up employee time .

Fifty-three percent of people say with training , they would trust AI to do parts of their job . AI could give people the space to excel in areas such as critical thinking , empathy and creativity , unlocking innovation in the workplace . By addressing workloads , AI could help shape a new working model , allowing a wider working population to access benefits like a four-day week without a productivity hit .

The dawn of AI in the workplace offers the potential for SMEs to enhance productivity and strengthen work / life balance . Underpinning this with a focus on skills , knowledge and resources will be critical .

IN RECRUITMENT , AI IS HELPING ORGANISATIONS ENHANCE DIVERSITY .

AI OFFERS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR SMES TO COMPETE WITH BIGGER PLAYERS , IF THEY CAN ACCESS THE SKILLS , KNOWLEDGE AND RESOURCES TO EMBRACE THEM .