Artificial intelligence is changing the way businesses operate, and for SMEs the opportunities are particularly exciting. At BIC Innovation, we have been exploring AI’s potential for some time, implementing tools that enhance efficiency, improve productivity, and allow our people to focus on what they do best – helping businesses grow.
For many SMEs, AI can feel like an abstract concept, something that belongs to the tech giants rather than small businesses. But in reality, AI tools are more accessible than ever, both in terms of cost and ease of use. At BIC, we started with the practical applications – using AI to assist with everyday tasks like minute-taking, agenda creation, and data analysis. These might not be the most glamorous uses of AI, but they are the tasks that can free up time for more valuable work.
One of the key lessons we’ve learned is that adopting AI is a process of trial and error. There is no single tool that will transform a business overnight, but by testing different applications, we’ve been able to identify those that make the biggest impact. For us, this has meant using widely available tools from providers like Microsoft and ChatGPT, as well as assessing security and data privacy considerations before integrating them into our processes.
Security is a critical factor. It is important to understand what data is being fed into AI tools, where it is stored, and how it is used. Free versions of AI software often require a trade-off, with user data being used to improve the system. That’s why businesses should take the time to evaluate whether a tool meets their security requirements before deploying it at scale.
One of the biggest challenges isn’t just the technology itself but the skills needed to use it effectively. AI tools are only as good as the instructions they receive, and learning how to interact with them is just as important as selecting the right software. It reminds me of learning a musical instrument – you might have the best piano in the world, but if you don’t know how to play it, you won’t get the best results. AI is the same; businesses need to invest time in learning how to use it properly.
For SMEs considering AI adoption, cost is another key consideration. The initial outlay might seem small – many tools are available for as little as £25 per user per month – but as more tools are added, the costs can add up. The real investment, however, is in the learning process. Time spent training people to use AI effectively is just as important as the technology itself. But once those skills are embedded, the savings in time and efficiency can be significant.
There is often a concern that AI will replace jobs, but I see it differently. AI is not about replacing people – it is about removing repetitive, time-consuming tasks so that teams can focus on work that adds real value. Rather than reducing headcount, AI has the potential to enhance roles, enabling people to be more creative, strategic, and effective in their work.
For businesses wondering how AI can help their customers, the answer lies in speed, efficiency, and quality. When used properly, AI can enhance decision-making, speed up processes, and provide richer insights. But transparency is key – businesses should be open about when and how AI is being used, ensuring that customers and clients understand its role.
It is difficult to predict exactly where AI will take us, but what is clear is that it is evolving at a rapid pace. Developments that once took years now happen in months, and businesses that embrace AI will be better placed to keep up with these changes. The challenge is not just in keeping up with the technology but in making sure it aligns with business goals.
For SMEs, AI is not something to be feared or ignored. It is an opportunity to improve operations, enhance productivity, and create new ways of working. The key is to approach it with an open mind, test different tools, and focus on what delivers the greatest value. AI is not the future – it is already here, and businesses that take the time to understand its potential will be the ones that benefit the most.
