The robots are coming! Thats the refrain common to many predictions about the future of artificial intelligence (AI). The truth, of course, is that for most technology-led businesses, the robots are already here.
Today, companies of all shapes and sizes are reaping the benefits of Big Data and analytics, pattern recognition and automation. For example, businesses frequently use AI algorithms to sift and analyse their Salesforce data in real-time, as it is collected, to extract insights that will improve efficiency. Automation, such as deploying driverless vehicles in factories or using software to check and approve employeesexpense claims, is another increasingly common way to make routine tasks quicker and easier to perform.
The exciting news is that this is just the first phase – the baby steps, if you will – of what AI can and will do for business. Big Data and automation have created huge opportunities for companies to save money and time. But that competitive advantage can only last for so long. Soon every company will have access to the same AI technologies and so their processes will become equally efficient. AI started by helping companies to improve what they already do. Now its opening the door to the creation of entirely new products, services and business models – even for “traditional”companies operating outside the technology sector. This is why I think the real AI revolution is yet to come.
