4 minute read
AI: transforming Sunshine Coast business futures
DR KAREN SUTHERLAND, Certified AI Consultant, Social Media Specialist, Co-Founder Dharana Digital
Sunshine Coast business owners are increasingly hearing about the positives (and negatives) of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. While some business owners have jumped on the AI bandwagon, others are a bit more cautious about taking the leap. A recent study by MYOB has reported only 19 per cent of Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are currently utilising AI in their operations. For many business owners, the prospect of integrating AI can be daunting. Let's address some of the fear and confusion surrounding AI and suggest practical steps forward.
One of the greatest fears surrounding AI is the complexity and perceived inaccessibility of the technology. Many worry that it requires extensive technical knowledge or significant investment. However, AI can be more approachable than it appears. There is a wide range of tools available, so much more than the mainstream offerings such as ChatGPT. It's about leveraging the correct AI technology and taking small steps to enhance customer experiences, make datainformed decisions and streamline your most labour-intensive tasks, not overhauling your entire operation overnight.
A major advantage of AI is its ability to personalise customer interactions. While the idea of analysing customer data might seem overwhelming, AI simplifies this process. It's not about intruding into customer privacy but about using available data to better understand and serve your clientele. With guidance, this information can then be used to create an AI Persona customised to your business and target market to assist with usually laborious tasks such as strategic planning and writing drafts for social media posts. We recently assisted Eumundi Markets to create an Events Assistant AI Persona to assist in event planning and marketing.
For small businesses, the shift from intuition-based to data-driven decisions can be intimidating. AI demystifies this process by identifying patterns and insights that might not be immediately obvious. This doesn't mean disregarding business instincts; rather, it's about supplementing them with concrete data. For example, AI can analyse customer interaction data from social media and website visits to identify patterns, allowing business owners to create more effective, personalised marketing campaigns targeted at specific customer interests and behaviours.
A common concern is that AI might lead to depersonalisation or even replace human roles. In reality, AI should be seen as a tool to streamline operations, allowing staff to focus on more strategic and creative tasks. It's about enhancing efficiency, not replacing the human element that is central to small businesses and the use of AI. One of the ways that we have assisted small business owners is by helping them to overcome social media posting procrastination. For example, we recently worked with Empire Art Photography to create a Marketing Assistant AI Persona to assist them with the planning and development of a personal branding challenge to help bring greater visibility to their personal branding service.
Given the rapid evolution of AI technology, training is important to learn how to approach AI. Google has a range of free courses; however, it’s also advisable for small business owners to seek assistance from experts in the field. A certified AI consultant can help demystify AI by breaking it down into simple, actionable steps, tailor solutions to your specific business needs, and ensure you're making the most of this technology in a secure, ethical and effective manner.
Embracing AI doesn't have to be an overwhelming leap into the unknown. With the right guidance and a clear understanding of its benefits and limitations, business owners can confidently integrate AI to enhance their operations and customer experiences.
If you would like some guidance on how collaborating with AI can benefit your business, please scan the QR Code to schedule a complimentary AI Discovery Call.
https://www.dharanadigital.com/
