Artificial technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate. From automating mundane tasks to generating creative content, AI has become an integral part of our daily lives. Yet, there remains a gap between what AI can do and what it needs to be set up to work well. It feels like everyone is either using it or selling a service with it, but looking deeper, it’s clear that for some, it’s like monkeys with technology—the tech is shiny, yet the implementation is shaky. 🛠️
Despite the potential AI holds, it’s crucial to approach AI services with a critical eye. Here are some essential tips for doing due diligence with AI services:
🤔 Understand the Technology
Before diving into any AI service, take the time to understand the underlying technology. Research how it works, its limitations, and its potential impact on your needs. Familiarizing yourself with AI concepts can help you make informed decisions.
“Don’t get blinded by the shiny new coat of paint.”
📊 Evaluate the Service Provider
Look into the reputation and track record of the service provider. Check for customer reviews, case studies, and testimonials. While recent strides in AI is new, consider their previous work in related fields to gauge their capability.
🛍️ Assess the Use Case
Ensure that the AI service aligns with your specific use case. Some AI solutions may be too generic or not tailored to your particular needs. Discuss with the provider how their service can be customized to meet your requirements.
🎥 Request a Demonstration
Ask for a live demo or trial to evaluate the AI’s performance, usability, and system compatibility. Create test cases tailored to your needs.
Basic Example:
For a clothes store looking to add an AI Assistant, use tools like ChatGPT or Claude and ask:
“I run a clothing store specializing in [X], catering to a customer demographic of [Y]. I am looking to partner with a company to integrate an AI Assistant into our online store. I need you to generate a variety of customer questions that this AI Assistant should be able to handle, reflecting the diverse inquiries from different customer demographics. Please also include notes on expected outcomes for each type of question.”
🔍 Check for Transparency
Transparency is key in AI services. Ensure that the provider is open about their algorithms, data sources, and methodologies. This can help you understand how the AI makes decisions and whether it aligns with your ethical standards, and to determine if a white-label solution is being used, if there are any licensing concerns.
🔒 Evaluate Data Privacy and Security
AI systems often rely on large datasets, which may include sensitive information. Verify that the service provider has robust data privacy and security measures in place to protect your data.
💰 Consider the Cost
AI services can be expensive, and costs can quickly add up. Compare pricing models and ensure that the service offers good value for money. Be wary of hidden costs or long-term commitments that may not be beneficial.
👩🏫 Seek Expert Opinions
Consult with AI experts or industry professionals to get their insights and recommendations. Their experience can provide valuable guidance in selecting the right AI service.
📈 Monitor Performance and Outcomes
Once you’ve implemented an AI service, continuously monitor its performance and outcomes. Regularly review its effectiveness and make adjustments as necessary to ensure it continues to meet your needs.
🛠️ Address Core Problems First
Whatever you are trying to achieve by adding AI, if it’s not working with human efforts, there’s a chance that simply adding AI won’t solve the problem and might end up being an expensive exercise. Therefore, ensure that the issue you wish to alleviate is the actual root cause of the problem before moving forward with AI.
For Example:
Product or Service Not Selling: If your product or service is not selling, getting an AI Sales Rep may not improve sales. The root cause might be product quality, pricing, or market fit.
Operational Inefficiencies: If your operations are inefficient due to outdated systems and poor workflow management, adding AI won’t fix these fundamental issues. Upgrading your systems and improving workflows are crucial steps.
By following these steps, you can navigate the fast-paced world of AI technology with confidence and make informed decisions that benefit your business or personal projects.
