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Small Business Automation: Which Tasks To Outsource To AI (And Which To Keep Human)

Elie Y. Katz

Forbes

Jun 10, 2024

In an era where "Help Wanted" signs are becoming common, small businesses are turning to an unexpected ally: artificial intelligence (AI). According to a recent survey by the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council (SBE Council), a staggering 75% of small businesses are embracing AI tools to bridge the gap. However, the question remains: Is AI a job threat, or can strategic implementation create a win-win for efficiency and human connection?

This optimism isn't universal. Consider a small restaurant that introduced an AI-powered reservation system to streamline seating. The system often overbooked tables or miscalculated wait times, leading to frustrated customers and operational chaos. These contrasting experiences highlight a common dilemma: Small-business owners need help determining the best ways to implement AI without disrupting operations.

Effective automation is a balancing act. For small businesses, especially those in retail and convenience sectors, identifying which tasks can be handled better by AI and which should remain under human control can ensure that AI becomes a tool that complements, rather than complicates, your business processes.