Blog

The benefits of AI for businesses 

August 14, 2024

With the rapid adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various industries, businesses are increasingly integrating AI into their operations.  

While we have previously explored the dangers of AI, there are real benefits of the technology if used sensibly and cautiously.  

AI offers a host of benefits that can improve efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making.  

Recent research shows the potential for AI to strengthen not only individual firms but the broader economy. 

AI growth and adoption 

According to a report by the International Trade Association, the UK AI market is already substantial, valued at over £16.8 billion, and it’s expected to skyrocket to £801.6 billion by 2035​.  

Approximately one in six UK organisations – around 432,000 in total – have integrated at least one AI technology into their operations​. 

Enhanced efficiency and productivity 

AI has the power to significantly boost productivity by automating routine tasks, such as data entry, customer service interactions, and inventory management.  

These tasks, which are often time-consuming for human workers, can be completed by AI systems in a fraction of the time.  

Sage reports that AI-powered invoice processing has led to a two-to-three-fold increase in productivity for some businesses.  

This gain allows employees to focus on more strategic, value-added activities, for example, innovation and client relationship management. 

According to Sage’s research, businesses that adopt AI are expected to grow three times faster than those that do not, potentially employing ten times as many staff​.  

This scalability is important as the UK AI sector continues to expand, with the potential to contribute an additional £2 billion to the UK economy​. 

Improved accuracy and reduced errors 

AI reduces the risk of human error in processes such as data entry and analysis, which can lead to costly mistakes and regulatory issues.  

AI systems are designed to follow strict rules and patterns, making them less prone to errors than manual processes. 

Over time, AI can learn from past mistakes and continuously improve its accuracy, further improving its reliability. 

Advanced data analysis and insights 

One of AI’s most powerful capabilities is its ability to analyse vast datasets quickly and accurately, uncovering patterns and trends that might be missed by human analysts.  

This capability is particularly valuable in sectors that rely on financial forecasting, risk assessment, and strategic planning.  

Better client service 

AI enables businesses to offer more personalised and responsive services to their clients.  

AI-powered tools can provide real-time updates, customised reports, and predictive analytics tailored to individual client needs.  

Additionally, AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants can handle client inquiries 24/7, providing immediate responses and freeing up human employees to focus on more complex issues.  

Compliance and risk management 

Regulatory compliance is an important aspect for most industries, and AI can help businesses stay compliant by automating checks and making sure they are up-to-date with the latest regulations.  

AI systems can monitor transactions in real time, ensuring compliance with tax laws, data protection regulations, and other legal requirements.  

It can also predict potential risks by analysing historical data, helping businesses to proactively manage and mitigate these risks before they escalate into damaging problems. 

Scalability and economic impact 

As businesses grow, managing increasing volumes of data and transactions becomes challenging.  

AI offers a scalable solution, allowing companies to handle more clients and complex tasks without proportionately increasing their workforce.  

Tech firm The Data City has reported that the UK, has an AI workforce of over 360,000​, so is well-positioned to lead this charge.  

The economic implications are substantial, with the Government reporting that AI contributed £3.7 billion to the UK economy in 2022.  

While the benefits of AI are clear, successfully integrating AI into your business requires careful planning and expertise.  

From automating financial processes to using AI for advanced data analysis, our firm has the expertise to help you harness the full potential of AI and elevate your business to higher levels. 

If you’d like to discuss how we can help you use AI to improve your business’ financial strategy, contact us today.  

Further reading

We think you’d like these posts