Before we get taken
over by Skynet*, I’m enjoying discovering the different ways AI (Artificial Intelligence) is making work easier and saving time.
We’re already familiar with Google (other search engines are available) for finding info. Siri and Alexa and the vagaries of predictive text have been around for a while but AI is changing what's possible.
AI goes beyond computer programming to ‘learn’ over time, so the more data it has the better it performs. Recognising patterns and making decisions based on the data or information available.
More and more AI plug-ins are now available for many of the apps we use on a
daily basis such as email, messaging and task management. Helping to simplify daily tasks.
I use automation in my business already and I’m now starting to tap into the AI features, such as ...
Automate Routine Tasks
Google Workspace (formerly G Suite)
Integrates AI into Gmail, Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. It offers features like:
- Smart Compose, creates subject lines, auto-suggests words and sentences as you
type;
- Smart Reply, to create quick responses to emails.
- Smarter email sorting and filtering. Learning what’s important and what’s junk or spam.
Trello
Uses AI to automate tasks and create customised workflows. Simplifying how you manage projects and organise tasks, keep track of your to-do list or clients and customers.
Acuity
Automatically schedule
meetings and appointments according to your calendar and how you want to plan and organise your diary. Send out confirmation, reminder and follow-up emails.
AI Virtual Assistants
Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant will set reminders and appointments for you as well as finding the
information you need. Easy to access from your phone or computer and saves time writing things down, finding information or having to remember times, names and places.
Content Creation
Canva
AI
I already love Canva and it now has AI built in, with features such as ‘Magic Write’ and a whole new ‘Magic Studio’ of features to help you create graphics for your business or even personal projects.
Searchie
The platform I use for content delivery for Clients, Courses and Membership. Not only does it provide a transcript for Zoom sessions of client calls, workshop, seminars, Q&As but with added AI it provides chapters and summaries for the content, making it even easier to use and providing
greater value.
ChatGPT
I got into ChatGPT earlier this year and was blown away by what it could do. Especially when I have to create or write something new and get brain freeze.
I sometimes struggle to put all my thoughts and ideas into words. Ask ChatGPT and it’ll quickly generate an outline, key points, ideas and suggestions.
It doesn’t always give you ‘exactly’ what you want and you need to consider the type of questions you ask. It creates a useful draft which can then be refined or give you a starting point
from which to work from.
Client Support
ChatBots
Respond to enquiries and questions 24/7. I have one on my website - it doesn’t get a lot
of use but it’s there. And I have to say, I frequently use them on other websites. It saves time waiting for Customer Services to answer and even if it’s purely virtual often provides a quick answer or solution.
I’m only scratching the surface with AI at the moment. The more we learn about both the benefits and pitfalls of AI, the better we can use it as a tool to save time
and increase productivity.
