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Sydney J. Harris published this book in 1973. “Clearing the Ground,” He touched upon a topic that is even more pertinent today. Harris, an experienced journalist who has a keen interest in society, didn’t predict a future where robots will replace humans. He warned us against losing the unique qualities of humanity in our haste to embrace new technology.
In a few years, AI and automation will no longer be futuristic concepts. By 2024 they will be changing the way businesses work. Instead of replacing human workers, owners optimize results and processes using a hybrid strategy that combines AI with human abilities.
In my role as CEO of a virtual assistant agency in the United States, I have seen how this method helps clients succeed. The hybrid approach combines the benefits of efficiency and human interaction, which is what many clients desire. This article will explore the benefits of hybrid models, and provide a 5-step process you can use to improve your business.
Related: Are you ready to go all-in on AI? Learn How to Understand the Psychology of Artificial Intelligence
Hybrid approach: What is it?
Many business owners and managers were apprehensive when automation, machine-learning and AI first entered the world of business. They feared job loss, cultural shifts and an unhumane work environment. AI disrupted fundamental business processes but business owners managed to maintain their existing workforce and workplace culture, while reaping the benefits.
One thing that 85% of owners say is that technology makes them successful, be it by expanding into new markets or improving the efficiency of their core business processes. A Harvard Business Review survey found that 80% employees believe that automation allows for more meaningful interaction with stakeholders and customers, as well as the chance to develop new skills and take on complex tasks.
AI and automation don’t replace humans. The goal is to integrate the power into existing teams in order to enhance collaboration and eliminate boring and inefficient tasks.
AI: How businesses are using it to optimize their business.
1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning AI and machine-learning are used by many business owners to sort through data mountains, identify trends and predict future outcomes to make better decisions.
2. Automation: Automating mundane tasks such as inquiries and scheduling can help clients improve accuracy and consistency.
3. Human intelligenceA team’s human skills are irreplaceable. Each company depends on the creativity, emotional intelligence and problem solving abilities of its employees every day. These professionals are able to handle complicated client needs, provide innovative solutions and have the empathy that is essential in every service industry.
Hybrid application for real-life
We will examine three hybrid models in real life to demonstrate how they work.
Task management
A hybrid model is a good fit for the task management feature. AI does the heavy lifting, sorting and ranking tasks so that you can focus on your most critical and urgent work. A human member of the team will then manage and oversee any final assignments, taking into account specific needs or preferences. The hybrid model is designed to be efficient without losing the personal touch, which is essential in building successful long-term relationships.
Ensure quality of service for customers
Hybrid models can help to maintain the quality of service by reviewing emails from customers and customer reports on a regular basis. AI flags errors or missing data, and sends them to human agents for approval.
Employee performance is important.
AI can be a powerful tool for evaluating employee performance. We use AI for the exact same purpose in our own business. AI tools are able to track and measure activity across all departments, which saves time for managers and gives them the information they need to provide better feedback.
AI: Five steps to implement it in your company
Here are the five main steps to implement a hybrid business model:
1. Evaluate your existing processes
First, you need to look at existing workflows. What tasks tend to be repetitive, or are prone for human error? Examples include manual data entry and answering basic questions from customers.
- Customer support automation Chatbots that use AI can handle FAQs, basic inquiries, and troubleshooting. This frees up agents to deal with complex issues.
- Data Analysis AI can be used to sift large datasets and generate reports that highlight trends. This replaces manual data analysis and collection..
- Recruitment processes for HR Artificial intelligence tools are able to scan resumes and shortlist potential candidates, as well as schedule interview times, which reduces the work load for HR departments.
- Document processing AI-powered tools are able to automate key data extraction from documents such as contracts, invoices and forms. This reduces the amount of manual work required.
- Analysis of customer feedback AI is able to scan and classify feedback coming from multiple sources such as surveys, social media and customer reviews in order to quickly identify trends.
- IT Helpdesk SupportImplement AI tools to handle IT tickets for basic support, identify common problems, and walk users through the troubleshooting process before they are escalated to human technicians.
- Inventory Management AI is able to automate the stock tracking process and order reordering based on analytics. This helps maintain optimal levels of inventory.
AI and automation are good options for these tasks. McKinsey found in a study that 45% of all paid activities could be automated with current technology, and this would save up to $ 2 trillion annually.
2. Select the Right Tools
The next step is to select the AI tools and automation resources that are right for you. You should look for tools and resources that can be easily integrated with your existing systems, as well as those which are scalable. You want resources with user-friendliness and good customization.
Start by reviewing and exploring reputable websites to gain insights. You could also hire a consultancy or agency that can help you find the best tools for your business or customize a solution based on AI.
3. Train your team
Integration of AI and automation in the workplace sounds fantastic, but without training your staff, there will be little or no success. You need to prepare your staff to collaborate with AI. Training should focus on skills that AI cannot easily duplicate, such as critical thinking and problem solving. Offer training about the new processes and the ways employees can make life easier by using the tools.
The World Economic Forum estimates that half of employees in 2025 will require reskilling due to the new technologies. The World Economic Forum Reskilling revolution platform will reach 600 million people worldwide by 2030 to address this problem. The resources that you choose will offer training to your staff.
Use a Learning Management System to streamline and automate your training, thus making it efficient and scaleable. LinkedIn Learning, Coursera and other platforms offer pre-made courses and templates that cover important topics.
4. Iterate and start small
Do not try to make all the changes at once. You may have heard the term “information overload”. Too much information can lead to low productivity, increased stress and decreased team morale. Start with one process or department. You can learn from this and make adjustments before you go all in.
Imagine you’re automating your customer service. Start with one channel such as an email instead of overhauling the entire process. Once your team has mastered this service, you can add phone or social media services. AI investment returns are higher for companies that expand from their pilot projects.
5. Communication is key
Your team should see AI as an asset, and not a danger. Transparency is key. Focus on the positive impact AI can have, and how they will be able to do more exciting tasks. Also, it’s important to emphasize that AI and automation do not replace them. It’s more of a tool that helps them excel in their roles.
Hybrid models: the future is now
A hybrid model is a collaboration between technology and people. It allows companies to be innovative and build meaningful relationships with customers when executed properly.
AI is a natural partner for humans, and the marriage between them naturally encourages each party to perform at its best. AI can do what it excels in, while humans are left with other tasks. “big picture” work. Here’s how businesses can create an environment where machines and humans coexist.
Sydney J. Harris said it best earlier. It’s not that machines will start thinking like humans, but rather that we may lose our unique characteristics as more and more tasks are automated. While still staying current with the latest trends, a hybrid model that is thoughtful can avoid this.
