As I’ve started learning more about technology to keep my skills relevant, I’ve come to a profound … for me at least … realisation.

There’s a big difference between artificial intelligence and simple automation.

Everywhere I look, AI is being talked about as though it is the answer to everything.

Even I can see it will only get better …. assuming we don’t first cause a planetary drought from the water consumption it necessitates. 🙄

But I also think that some businesses should simply explore automating some of their processes before they think of AI.

There’s some hidden benefits in this approach:

🔹 It forces the owner to think of the existing process .. if there is one … and any friction it may cause

🔹 The owner then has to think of the ultimate outcome of the ideal process and how it should flow

🔹 Chances are, the business is not unique and there may be an off-the-shelf solution already available.

I don’t really know how many businesses out there should simply look at automation first before considering AI, but I feel there’s a substantial number.

Many businesses I used to see in the past would have a nice, shiny accounting or CRM package … 70% of which was never used. And they were paying for ALL its features!

I’m going to keep my eyes and ears open when I start my job and see what processes could be improved. Watch for any bottlenecks or friction points. Try and make myself extra valuable. 🙂

Whilst still keeping an eye on AI and keeping abreast of what’s changing on that front.

I feel my days are going to be very full!