Using machine learning to create happier, healthier companies in the UAE
There is a certain amount of fear where AI and machine learning are concerned. Many employees look at the increasingly innovative abilities of these technologies and worry about their positions and the future of their careers. However, what many people don’t realise is that AI could simplify their daily duties and allow them to grow their careers in the direction they choose.
AI can simplify the running of a business, reduce risks, increase productivity, and contribute to a company being able to achieve its goals a lot faster and more accurately. More than that, machine learning can help you retain employees, keeping them happier, healthier, and more positive.
AI is ready and waiting to revolutionise your business
Artificial Intelligence isn’t the stuff of science fiction. It’s no longer futuristic or something that will take years to develop. It’s right here, right now… ready to work for your business. According to IDC, in the coming years, AI solutions will grow at a rate of around 54.4%; in 2020, it had already exceeded $46 billion. This rapidly increasing market is expected to overtake a third of current screen-based apps by 2024.
In the UAE, a dedicated AI Council has been established to promote education and training that increases proficiency in this new technology. Along with this, a National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 has also been introduced, creating a space where investment in AI development and innovation is prioritised.
The use of artificial intelligence has been especially pertinent throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, with the country making use of several AI tools to roll out vaccination strategies and the development of the Alhosn public health app used for track-and-trace operations.
Looking at the ways that AI can be applied at a large scale, it’s no wonder companies are paying attention and starting to embrace the technology within their business. If you’re not harnessing this power yourself, you’re missing out on a substantial resource.
Introducing AI to your team
Ignoring the fears and concerns your team members have when it comes to AI is not going to help integrate these systems into your company. Instead, listen to what your employees have to say, try to understand where they are coming from, and explain that AI is not there to replace them. From that point, introduce them to the AI you’ll be using and get them involved in deciding how best to use machine learning in your day-to-day business.
Reducing risk and stress with machine learning
Once you’ve introduced your team to the AI you’ll be using, you’ll find that there is a myriad of ways this technology can reduce stress within your organisation, leaving your employees more positive and productive.
According to a Microsoft AI report, 70% of fast-growing companies in the UAE are planning to use AI within the next year to improve decision-making, compared to only 46% of companies worldwide. That’s good news for management and employees, and a nudge to get your team on board.
Many AI applications were created to mitigate risk. This tech takes away much of the guesswork present in companies when human beings are owning the processes. With AI, gut impulses and assumptions are removed from everyday operations. This means fewer risks are being taken each day.
When employees aren’t stressed about the possible ramifications of each tiny decision they make, they are free to think about the bigger picture and focus on the parts of their job that require human ideas, lengthy thought processes, and deliberation among colleagues.
At the end of the day, if your team members are less stressed and able to focus on the main areas of their jobs, they’ll be more productive. More than that, they’ll be happier and healthier, as well as positive about the company they work for.
AI can take over administrative tasks, reduce risk in everyday decision-making, and ensure that employees can take the time they need to ensure their main KPIs are being met. This plays a big role in staff retention, which is crucial with the current tech skills gap.
Developing a culture of technology
Much of the success of new tech like AI depends on buy-in from key stakeholders. It’s becoming an increasingly relevant topic, with one 2018 McKinsey report estimating that 45% of existing work in the Middle East holds the potential of being automated by 2030.
In the UAE, the development of the Centennial 2071 indicates the level of priority that’s being placed on the topic.
The plan encompasses core areas like future-focused education and leadership and emphasises the importance of advancing diversified knowledge over the next 50 years. A big part of this strategy aims to position the UAE as a leader in tech, including the use of AI.
A project called The AI Talent Hunt Programme has also been launched, providing support for the attraction and recruitment of AI talent. This programme has placed the UAE on the map for tech companies around the world, providing a strong pool of highly skilled professionals to work with.
Embracing AI across industries holds the potential to grow UAE GDP by 35% and promises to cut down government spending by 50%.
Over in Saudi Arabia, the much-talked-about Project Neom serves as another beacon of innovation in the region. Neom is a futuristic city that will be run using AI and other smart tech. Announced in 2017, NEOM aims to be a hub where world-class innovation and development is encouraged. Work has started on the first section of the city, and the plan is to welcome the first residents by 2024.
Looking at the developments in the AI field over the past few years, it’s exciting to imagine what is around the corner. How is your company taking advantage of these changes?
We’re here to assist you in finding the people who can take your company’s innovation to the next level. Contact us today to tap into our network of specialised talent.
