Generative Artificial Intelligence, an emerging and powerful technology, is becoming a crucial ally for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) seeking to improve their operational efficiency and drive innovation. According to astudyfrom McKinsey, companies that adopt AI in their operational processes can reduce costs by up to 20% and increase efficiency by 30%.
Furthermore, onereportMIT Technology Review points out that 71% of companies recognize the great potential of AI for their businesses and most respondents anticipate a significant increase in investment in this area
Another interesting fact is that 60% of companies that implemented AI solutions experienced significant growth in their revenues. Tools like OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's Gemini are examples of AI that can automate repetitive tasks and free up valuable time for strategic activities. This advancement allows SMEs to be more competitive and innovative in a dynamic market
The application of Generative Artificial Intelligence in SMEs can manifest in various ways, from increasing operational efficiency to assisting in decision-making.
We list below, four benefits of Generative AI for small and medium enterprises.
- Improved operational efficiency
Generative AI offers transformative potential for SMEs by automating repetitive tasks, such as the creation of emails and reports, allowing employees to focus on strategic activities. "Tools like Copilot, from Microsoft, Midjourney allows the creation of images for use in marketing, while solutions like ChatGPT help automate communication with customers, says the data and innovation specialist and MBA professor at Fundação Getúlio Vargas (FGV), Kenneth Correa
Kenneth exemplifies by saying that "a small retail store can use generative AI to optimize its inventory, forecasting seasonal demands based on historical data and market trends. Marketing agencies also benefit from using Adobe tools to create personalized content at scale, "significantly increasing your productivity" declares
- Product and service innovation
Generative AI is a powerful ally for SMEs in product and service innovation, allowing smaller companies to compete more effectively by generating creative ideas and innovative solutions. For example, a small design company can use tools like DALL-E or Midjourney to create unique visual concepts, accelerating the creative process and offering more diverse options to clients, comments the specialist
In the market research, tools like Perplexity help find updated information, while the analysis of large volumes of data allows for the identification of emerging trends and opportunities for new products. AI can personalize recommendations, how fashion companies use algorithms to suggest products based on customer preferences
- Personalizing the customer experience
Generative AI allows SMEs to provide more personalized and relevant service, improving the customer experience. According to Corrêa, assistentes personalizados como os criados pela OpenAI podem fornecer suporte ao cliente 24/7, responding to questions and solving problems in a natural and contextualized way. This results in greater customer satisfaction and reduces the burden on support teams
Moreover, AI can analyze customers' purchase history and online behavior to generate highly personalized recommendations. Solutions like Rosana.I help small online stores personalize product recommendations, while email marketing tools generate content tailored to customers' interests, increasing engagement and loyalty
- Strategic decision making
Generative AI is revolutionizing strategic decision-making in Small and Medium Enterprises, providing data-driven insights that were previously accessible only to large corporations. "Tools like Rows.with PolymerSearch.that allow for the efficient analysis of large volumes of market data and customer behavior, facilitating business expansion decisions, product development or resource allocation, informs Kenneth
According to the expert, AI also assists in the creation of executive reports and presentations, synthesizing complex data into actionable insights, democratizing access to business intelligence and enabling SMEs to compete more effectively
Challenges and preparation for the adoption of Generative AI
Although Generative AI offers numerous benefits, SMEs face challenges such as the misconception that it is a complex and expensive technology. In fact, many AI tools are intuitive and accessible, with free or low-cost versions
To make the most of innovations in AI, SMEs must adopt a mindset of experimentation and continuous learning. "Start with free tools for simple tasks", investing in team education and staying updated on the latest innovations are essential steps. Identifying areas of the business that can immediately benefit from AI and starting with pilot projects helps to demonstrate value quickly, highlights Corrêa.
For the specialist, with the right approach, Small and Medium Enterprises can integrate this technology into their processes, gaining competitiveness and promoting sustainable growth. "The key is to start small", learn continuously and adapt as you progress, making the most of the transformative potential of Generative AI, finalizes
