After hearing how artificial intelligence or AI can improve workplace efficiency and boost profits, we’re sure you’re eager to jump on the bandwagon too. However, before you use AI in your business, there are some things you need to consider.
1. It can get expensive
AI models for inventory tracking and demand prediction are available for as low as $50, but often these don't cover all your needs and aren't tailored for your business. For best results, it's recommended to train AI models with data specific to your business. Additionally, more sophisticated AI demands high-powered hardware to function correctly.
With the expertise, human resources, and hardware required to train, test, monitor, and run AI effectively, the upfront costs can rack up quickly. However, you can alleviate your costs by working with service companies like Dataloop.ai. Outsourcing means you don’t need to spend time hiring employees and training them. They’re also cheaper than building a team and infrastructure from the ground up.
2. It can take time
Incorporating AI into your business isn’t just about installing software and running it. As mentioned, you need to train, test, and monitor your AI to ensure it’s performing optimally. Training alone can take days, or even weeks, depending on the volume of data you’re feeding the machine. Once the data is processed, you need to test the machine to catch any mistakes and correct them.
Once initial testing is done, you still need to supervise the model to ensure you didn’t miss anything during the testing phase. Here is when artificial intelligence services company comes in handy. This effort will pay off down the line as the more thoroughly you train and test the system, the better it will perform. This is crucial for predictive models as retailers use them to gauge demand and allocate resources for maximum profit.
If the machine is providing you with erroneous predictions, you’ll only lose money, which defeats the purpose of the AI.
3. It will not solve all your problems
Many people seem to think of AI as a magical button that will suddenly make their business perfect. This can't be farther from the truth. AI is only there to assist. It will not run your business for you or replace all your employees.
AI can only take repetitive and mundane jobs, so your employees are free to perform more relevant tasks for the business. For example, having an employee respond to customer inquiries can get repetitive since customers repeatedly ask the same questions. If you leave the most common customer inquiries to a chatbot, the employee can focus on more urgent customer concerns.
AI is an excellent tool for growing your business and streamlining various processes. Take advantage of it but educate yourself on how to use it effectively.
When deciding to work with a third party, take measures to protect your data and research thoroughly to ensure your partner is trustworthy and legitimate. Also, note that AI models can be tailored to your business, so just because a model is working for your competitor doesn't mean it will work for you.
