8 Steps for Putting AI to Work for You

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Research confirms that two years ago, about a third of small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) had engaged AI-enabled technology solutions.

Mar 25, 2025

Managed AI Services

Research confirms that two years ago, about a third of small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) had engaged AI-enabled technology solutions. Last year, that number more than doubled. This year analysts predict SMBs will at least match that pace of performance.

Why? Because, as we argue in our white paper, AI for Every Business – A Quick Business Guide:

“Organizations that fail to embrace the innovation or delay plans for implementing these solutions could find themselves at a significant competitive disadvantage.”

How can SMB leaders avoid this problem? We advocate these steps for maximizing the positive impact of AI:

  1. Chart Challenges: Pinpoint opportunities for measurable gains in efficiency, productivity or user experience.
  2. Scrutinize Data: Evaluate accessibility, depth, clarity and relevance.
  3. Clarify Goals: Write exacting implementation objectives: Where will you arrive? And when?
  4. Explore Tools & Platforms: Research by dimensions of budget, timelines and user-friendly options.
  5. Experiment & Test: Investigate solutions at small scale before full-scale implementation to estimate effectiveness and anticipate complications.
  6. Educate Persistently: Train employees – and customers where applicable – how to interact with AI most successfully.
  7. Articulate Governance: Develop guidelines for proper usage, ensuring privacy, fairness and transparency.
  8. Assess Security: Evaluate risks and implement appropriate safeguards before going live.


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