Artificial intelligence (AI) is incredible. We can all agree on that. It does a lot, and it does it well. However, many AI integrations still fail. Not because of technological shortcomings, but because people are seduced by fancy tech features that yield little value. So, how do you ensure the success of your AI implementation? Here are three tips.
1. Don’t be blinded by the bling bling
If speeches at conferences and LinkedIn posts are to be believed, artificial intelligence is the only technology that matters nowadays. Big plans for AI implementations are announced in extravagant wording, convincing us that success is inevitable. After all, it’s AI—it always works. Right?
Not quite. AI tools can be powerful, but they are not a universal solution for every process or organization. Some AI companies insist otherwise and force AI tools into production processes at all costs. The result? The technology doesn’t deliver and employees don’t use it. The shiny tools sit in a corner, collecting dust.
> Look beyond the flashy words. Ask yourself: will AI truly improve my processes and let my employees work more efficiently?
2. Understand your processes
To answer that question, you have to understand the processes in your business. How do they work? What about the output? If your output isn’t good enough, why is that? What’s running smoothly and what are the challenges? Only by understanding your processes can you identify opportunities for process optimization and how technology, such as AI, can help with that.
No one knows your processes better than the people on your production floor. They hold the key to a successful implementation. Involve them in your plans to identify quick wins. You can install a state-of-the-art user interface, but if your operators don’t find value in all the bells and whistles, it’s a waste of time and money.
> Ensure that your process optimization brings added value to your employees and make sure they see that added value quickly.
3. Listen to your people
Artificial intelligence brings efficiency to the processes in your business, but can also bring doubt and uncertainty for your employees. Will it change their jobs—and if yes, how? Or will it even make them redundant? It’s crucial to understand the impact of AI on employees and to listen to your people’s concerns.
The goal of AI is not to replace humans, but it’s a possible consequence if an AI solution is implemented properly. To make your process optimization successful, it’s essential to reassure your employees. Communicate openly about changes in their work environment and their job. Remind them of the importance of human capital: their knowledge, skills, and experience are useful. People who feel supported will be more open to change.
> Assure your co-workers that although AI may take over certain tasks, it’s not meant to get rid of human capital. It merely allows them to focus on what they’re good at.