Technological advancements have continued to allow businesses to enhance programs and practices over time. With major developments in artificial intelligence (AI), it’s now easier than ever to leverage this tool to advance your organization. To fully appreciate how AI can benefit your business, it’s essential to understand how it works. AI uses algorithms and data to mimic tasks that typically require human intelligence. It operates by collecting data, recognizing patterns, making predictions and learning from mistakes to quickly adapt and process information. The purpose of AI is not to replace human beings, but serve as a powerful tool that enhances analytics and insights, helping to optimize internal business operations.

Below are some ways that your organization can ethically integrate AI applications to enhance your business practices.

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2. Internet & data research 

In today’s data-driven landscape, AI is changing how businesses handle market research and connect with customers. AI significantly impacts online data research by leveraging machine-learning applications to deliver cognitive insights for market analysis. It can identify search behavior patterns and provide users with more relevant information to reach their target customers more efficiently and pursue new markets. These AI applications can predict what a customer is likely to buy and automate personalized digital ads to drive more sales to your business.

When using AI systems as a marketing tool, it’s important to implement data-handling procedures to protect the privacy and security of any personal data that’s collected and processed. Be transparent about data use, conduct regular audits to ensure compliance, and obtain consent from users when necessary. It’s important to stay informed about and comply with relevant data protection laws and regulations. Businesses can responsibly use AI and maintain trust by respecting users’ privacy.

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3. Customer experience

AI is playing a significant role in enhancing consumer experiences through integrated customer interaction channels. Many businesses are already using these intelligent agents to offer 24/7 customer and technical support in order to help improve the customer experience when shopping online. Through the use of these cognitive engagement tools, such as AI chatbots, smart systems can aid in handling customer inquiries online and provide product or service recommendations to increase personalization, engagement, and sales.

When using cognitive engagement tools, ensure that AI systems properly cite and source intellectual property, including copyrights, patents, and trade secrets. BBB advises to “Implement content filters or licensing agreements to prevent AI-generated content from infringing on the rights of others.” Respecting intellectual property promotes a fair and competitive marketplace.

 

3. Cybersecurity

AI can be used as an ally in mitigating and avoiding network security threats. By analyzing data input patterns, these systems can identify potential cyberattacks and other security risks. Once a threat is detected, AI can trace the source and provide better insight to prevent future incidents. This can help reduce cybersecurity costs for your business and enhance overall protection of data.

To maximize the benefits of AI in cybersecurity, it’s crucial to keep your systems up to date and exercise caution when downloading files or software. You should plan for regular reviews and updates of your AI systems, and stay informed about the latest developments in AI ethics and best practices to help ensure your network and remains secure.

 

4. Process automation 

AI can help transform internal business operations by managing emails, maintaining calendars, and streamlining internal processes. According to Forbes, many businesses use AI to enhance production and process automation. AI can improve product features, functions, and performance and facilitate data transfers from emails and call centers into record-keeping systems. Integrating AI for automation helps reduce errors and create more reliable data logs for customer and employee profiles.

It’s important to ensure your staff is trained to provide human oversight over these application systems. If the system encounters an issue, having staff members who can intervene encourages collaboration between humans and Artificial Intelligence, resulting in a more effective use of AI technology.

Overall, Artificial Intelligence is a useful tool that can help in various aspects of business management, resulting in enhanced internal processes, optimized productivity, and improved customer experiences.

Visit bbb.org for more information on AI and how to grow your small business.

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Katherine Silva is marketing, communications and outreach manager for the BBB Serving Central California & Inland Empire Counties.