I’ve met countless professionals who believe that earning certifications like CISSP, CISM, Security+, etc. is the key to advancing their careers. And while certifications are valuable—they demonstrate expertise, commitment, and a solid understanding of best practices—there’s one critical skill they don’t teach: how to communicate security and technology risks in a way that leadership understands.

I have several myself: CISSP, PMP, ITIL, MCSE and more — each one has helped me gain deeper technical knowledge and industry credibility. But none of them, on their own, prepared me for the real challenge of leadership: translating complex security concepts into business priorities.

A few weeks ago, I spoke with a colleague who had just completed a major certification. He was feeling confident about his technical knowledge, but then he walked into a leadership meeting and was asked to explain why his team’s proposed security initiative mattered to the business. He knew the technical details inside and out, but when it came to making the case to executives—framing security as a business priority rather than a technical challenge—he struggled.

That moment made it clear: Certifications don’t prepare you for the real challenges of leadership.

The Gap Between Certifications and Real-World Leadership

Certifications focus on frameworks, methodologies, and compliance—which are important. But in the real world, professionals must be able to:

• Translate security risks into business impact.
• Justify IT investments in terms of ROI.
• Persuade leadership to prioritize security initiatives.

I’ve seen too many skilled IT professionals hit a ceiling in their careers—not because they lack knowledge, but because they struggle to communicate complex ideas in a way that decision-makers care about.

For example, if you’re discussing Zero Trust security with your executive team, you need to go beyond saying,

“Zero Trust limits network access to reduce attack surfaces.”

Instead, translate that into business terms:

“Zero Trust ensures that only the right people have access to critical systems, reducing the likelihood of a data breach that could cost us millions in fines and lost customer trust.“

This shift in communication changes the conversation—and ultimately determines whether your initiatives get the support they need.

Three Skills Every Cybersecurity and IT Leader Needs

If you want to stand out and drive real change, focus on developing these three essential leadership skills:

1. Storytelling & Business Impact

Leaders don’t respond to jargon and technical specs—they respond to narratives that connect security to real business challenges.

• Instead of saying: “We need to implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to strengthen security.”
• Say: “Over 80% of breaches come from weak passwords. MFA would immediately reduce our risk of unauthorized access, protecting both our data and our reputation.”

The difference? One statement sounds like an IT upgrade. The other sounds like a business necessity.

2. Risk-Based Decision Making

Security isn’t about eliminating all risks—it’s about prioritizing the most critical ones without disrupting operations.

• Understand risk appetite — how much risk your company is willing to tolerate.
• Learn how to quantify risk in dollars — leaders want to know what a security failure could cost the business.
• Frame recommendations in terms of business value, not just security best practices.

Example: Instead of saying, “This patch reduces vulnerabilities,” explain, “This patch could prevent an outage that would cost us $50K in lost revenue per hour.”

3. Stakeholder Influence & Negotiation

Your ability to secure buy-in for security initiatives determines whether they actually get implemented.

• Speak the language of finance, operations, and executive leadership—not just IT.
• Identify the real drivers behind security decisions (often compliance, customer trust, or financial impact).
• Build relationships before you need them—so when a crisis arises, decision-makers already trust your expertise.

If you can’t convince the CFO or CEO why security investments matter, even the best technology solutions will go underfunded or deprioritized.

How to Develop These Skills (Beyond Certifications)

So, how do you bridge the gap between technical expertise and executive influence?

1. Start practicing now. Present security insights to non-technical colleagues and get feedback on clarity.
2. Study leadership communication. Take courses on storytelling, negotiation, and business strategy.
3. Follow cybersecurity leaders who articulate security in business terms—watch how they frame discussions.
4. Get involved in executive-level conversations. Don’t just sit in IT meetings—engage with finance, operations, and leadership.

The professionals who stand out are the ones who combine technical depth with the ability to communicate its value to the business.

Certifications prove what you know—but your ability to connect security to business priorities is what sets you apart.

If you’re serious about advancing in cybersecurity or IT leadership, ask yourself:
Are you just learning technical frameworks, or are you preparing to lead?

Tech skills get you in the door. Communication skills put you at the table.

Are you ready for that next-level conversation?

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As we approach 2025, I’m excited to share some big goals I’ve set for myself and my business. Every November, I reflect on ways to grow, both personally and professionally, and this past November was no different.

Here’s a glimpse into what I’m focusing on in 2025:

Writing and Publishing My First Book

This year, my personal goal is to write and publish my first book. Publishing a book has been a long-time aspiration of mine and is an opportunity to channel creativity, share insights, and accomplish something deeply meaningful on a personal level. As part of this, I’m applying my “5 to 10% personal development rule,” dedicating no more than 5-10% of my time and income to this project.

Here’s where I stand:

• Exploring Content Options:
  • I’ve already drafted two books:
    • A passion project about technology careers.
    • A business-focused book targeting my ideal audience, which I’ve revised twice but may still refine further.
  • Alternatively, I may start fresh and write a completely new book that better meets the needs of my audience.
• Publishing Insights:
  • I recently read The Nonfiction Book Publishing Plan by Karl Palachuk and Stephanie Chandler, which provided valuable insights into the self-publishing process. It also helped confirm my assumption that self-publishing my first book would likely require more time than my 5-10% rule allows.
  • To balance my time commitments, I’m leaning toward working with a hybrid publishing company for this first book. This approach will provide the structure I need while ensuring I can meet my personal and professional priorities.
  • Self-publishing is still on the table for future books once I’ve mastered the process and can dedicate more time.

Aligning Personal and Business Goals:

This year, I’ve decided to align my personal goals with my business objectives to create a stronger, more cohesive path forward. A significant shift I’ve embraced is becoming more publicly active—a step I haven’t taken in several years. By aligning my personal and professional growth, I’m taking a strategic approach to strengthen my business and personal brand:

• Q1: Redefining my personal brand marketing strategy.
• Q2: Increasing my public presence by participating in events and networking.
• Q3: Developing a robust process to better engage my target audience.

I’ve also partnered with a marketing firm to fine-tune specific aspects of my business marketing. Their expertise will complement my efforts to enhance my overall strategy.

Looking Ahead

2025 is shaping up to be a transformative year. Publishing my first book—whether it’s a revised version of my current drafts or an entirely new project—will be a deeply personal milestone. By focusing on aligning my personal goals with my business strategy, I’m creating a foundation for growth and success in all areas of my life.

I’m excited about what’s ahead and grateful to have your support along the way. If you have advice, insights, or encouragement, I’d love to hear from you.

Let’s make this year one of meaningful achievements together!

Wylie Blanchard

Here are a few of my activities from 2024:

• What is Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and Why Does It Matter?
• From NPD to the Cloud: Why Businesses Must Prioritize Cybersecurity Now
• Embracing AI in SMBs: Driving Competitiveness and Efficiency Through Technology
• Essential Disaster Preparedness Strategies: Safeguarding Your Business
• Innovating on a Budget: Strategies for Today’s Tech Leaders
• Embracing AI in SMBs: Driving Competitiveness and Efficiency Through Technology

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Imagine an AI system that could not only assist with routine tasks but also make strategic decisions, transforming industries overnight. This is the promise of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), a technology poised to reshape the business landscape. Unlike today’s AI systems, which excel at specific tasks like language translation or image recognition, AGI aspires to perform any intellectual task a human can do. Think of AGI as a machine with the ability to reason, learn, and adapt across a wide range of problems, rather than being confined to a single skill set.

AGI is often seen as the “holy grail” of artificial intelligence—a system capable of understanding, reasoning, and decision-making with the flexibility of a human mind. While the journey toward AGI began with basic machine learning and narrow AI applications, researchers now envision a future where machines can learn new tasks without explicit programming, solve complex problems autonomously, and collaborate seamlessly with humans.

How is AGI Different from Current AI?

Today’s AI systems, often called “narrow AI,” are highly effective but limited. For instance, a chatbot like ChatGPT can answer questions and generate text, but it cannot diagnose diseases or manage complex project planning. AGI, on the other hand, would integrate a broad spectrum of cognitive abilities into one system, enabling it to tackle entirely different tasks with little or no retraining. This versatility is what makes AGI a revolutionary concept.

Consider an example: Narrow AI might power an e-commerce recommendation engine that suggests products to customers. AGI, by contrast, could analyze trends, predict inventory needs, and create personalized marketing campaigns—all while adapting to real-time shifts in consumer behavior. Similarly, in the healthcare sector, AGI could provide predictive diagnostics, tailoring treatment plans for patients based on genetic data, medical history, and environmental factors.

Creating AGI, however, is a monumental challenge, requiring breakthroughs in data processing, cognitive modeling, and ethical safeguards. Predictions about AGI’s arrival vary widely. Some, like OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman, believe AGI could emerge as early as 2025, though skeptics cite the immense technical and ethical hurdles involved.

Why Should Evolving Businesses Care?

AGI has the potential to revolutionize how businesses operate, making it a game-changer for companies looking to scale or remain competitive.

For example:

• In healthcare, AGI could enable smaller practices to deliver personalized treatments by seamlessly integrating patient data, genetic insights, and the latest medical advancements. This could help level the playing field with larger institutions, allowing even rural clinics to offer world-class diagnostic services.
• In education, AGI could personalize learning plans for students by analyzing individual performance data and adapting teaching methods to their needs. This would empower small educational institutions to deliver high-quality, customized learning experiences that rival those of elite schools.
• In professional services, AGI could automate repetitive tasks such as document review or client onboarding, freeing up resources for strategic decision-making and personalized client interactions. Small accounting or consulting firms, for instance, could use AGI to analyze financial records, generate insights, and forecast trends with greater precision.
• In non-profit organizations, AGI could dramatically enhance impact by optimizing resource allocation, streamlining volunteer coordination, and automating routine tasks like donor outreach and grant management. For example, AGI could analyze community needs, predict trends, and recommend the most effective strategies for deploying aid. This level of operational efficiency and data-driven insight would enable non-profits to amplify their reach and focus more on their mission rather than administrative burdens.

For growing businesses and organizations of all sizes, AGI represents an opportunity to achieve more with fewer resources, improving efficiency and competitiveness in a rapidly changing marketplace. As noted in McKinsey’s Technology Trends Outlook 2024, advancements in AI are increasingly driving innovation and enabling companies to break barriers, leading to new efficiencies and expanded capabilities in enterprise applications. Understanding its potential now can help businesses prepare to harness its benefits as the technology matures.

A Practical Roadmap for SMBs: Preparing for AGI

Preparing for AGI doesn’t require jumping in headfirst. Instead, businesses can begin by adopting narrow AI tools, building a foundation for more advanced AI systems in the future. Here’s a step-by-step roadmap for growing companies to get started:

1. Identify Key Pain Points

Start by identifying specific challenges within your business. Are you struggling with repetitive administrative tasks, inefficient workflows, or slow decision-making processes? Narrow AI tools, such as automation platforms or analytics dashboards, can address these issues.

2. Adopt Narrow AI Solutions

Implement AI tools tailored to your business needs. For example:

• IT Support: Use AI-driven systems to monitor and resolve technical issues proactively.
• Customer Engagement: Deploy chatbots to handle routine inquiries, freeing up human staff for complex tasks.
• Data Management: Leverage analytics tools to uncover insights from customer or operational data.

An outsource IT partner can guide businesses through the implementation of these tools, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems.

3. Upskill Your Workforce

Ensure your team is prepared to work alongside AI systems by providing training and resources. An experienced technology partner can offer staffing solutions and training programs tailored to growing companies, helping teams stay ahead in an AI-driven world.

4. Optimize IT Infrastructure

Invest in scalable, cloud-based IT solutions to support future AI capabilities. A technology provider with expertise in platforms like Microsoft Power Platform can help businesses set up systems that grow alongside their needs.

5. Build a Long-Term AI Strategy

Collaborate with a technology consultant to develop a roadmap for integrating more advanced AI technologies. This includes identifying opportunities for AGI applications as they become viable.

Preparing for the AGI Era

While AGI may be years—or decades—away, evolving businesses can prepare by embracing today’s AI tools. Start experimenting with AI-powered solutions in your operations, stay informed about advancements, and consider how AGI might integrate with your existing systems in the future. By understanding its potential now, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the changes it will bring.

For companies just starting their AI journey, adopting narrow AI solutions can offer immediate benefits while laying the groundwork for future AGI integration. Automating repetitive tasks, leveraging data analytics, and upskilling teams to work alongside intelligent systems are excellent first steps.

AGI holds incredible promise, but it also raises important questions about ethics, security, and the role of humans in a world increasingly shaped by intelligent machines. It’s an exciting time to be in business as we stand on the edge of a potential revolution.

This content was originally posted on Medium.

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Recent tornadoes in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs have starkly highlighted the urgent need for businesses to enhance their disaster preparedness strategies. The destructive storms caused widespread power outages, significant infrastructure damage, and disrupted operations for numerous businesses. These events underscore the vulnerabilities in existing systems and the necessity for robust disaster recovery plans. Being prepared for such unforeseen events is critical to building resilience and ensuring continuity.

The recent tornadoes, which resulted in significant damage and power outages, serve as a stark reminder of the potential for natural disasters to disrupt business operations. As businesses in the affected areas work to recover, the importance of comprehensive disaster preparedness becomes evident. Ensuring that a business can withstand and quickly recover from such events is essential to maintaining operations and minimizing financial loss.

Here are some recommendations for businesses across the Midwest:

Assess and Prioritize Risks

Begin by identifying potential risks specific to the business and geographic location. The recent tornadoes, which caused extensive damage and power outages, underscore the importance of this step. Conduct a thorough risk assessment to prioritize threats based on their likelihood and potential impact on operations.

Develop a Comprehensive Disaster Recovery Plan

A robust disaster recovery plan is essential for minimizing downtime and ensuring business continuity. The plan should include:

• Data Backup and Recovery: Regularly back up critical data and ensure that backups are stored offsite or in the cloud. This prevents data loss in the event of physical damage to premises.
• Communication Strategy: Establish clear communication protocols to ensure all stakeholders are informed during a disaster. This includes updating contact information and having alternative communication channels in place.
• Operational Continuity: Identify key business functions and outline procedures for maintaining these operations during disruptions. This includes having contingency plans for IT infrastructure, supply chain management, and customer service.

Invest in Reliable IT Infrastructure

Modern businesses rely heavily on technology, making IT infrastructure a critical component of disaster preparedness. Cloud services can ensure that IT systems are resilient, scalable, and secure. Important aspects include:

• Cloud Migration: Transition critical applications and data to the cloud to enhance accessibility and reduce the risk of data loss.
• System Redundancy: Implement redundant systems to ensure that if one system fails, another can take over without disrupting operations.
• Cybersecurity Measures: Protect IT infrastructure from cyber threats with advanced security solutions, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits.

Regular Testing and Training

A disaster recovery plan is only effective if it is regularly tested and updated. Conduct regular drills to ensure that all employees are familiar with their roles and responsibilities during a disaster. Comprehensive training programs can prepare the team for various disaster scenarios.

Leverage Technology for Enhanced Preparedness

Utilize advanced technologies to enhance disaster preparedness efforts. Solutions include:

• Business Intelligence and Analytics: Use data analytics to monitor risks and make informed decisions during a crisis.
• Automation Tools: Implement automation to streamline disaster recovery processes, such as automated backups and failover systems.
• Virtual Dashboards: Access real-time information and insights through virtual dashboards that help monitor the status of business operations during a disaster.

Collaborate with Experts

Partnering with experts ensures that disaster preparedness strategies are comprehensive and up-to-date. Professionals with extensive experience in business continuity planning, IT support, and cloud services can work closely with businesses to develop customized solutions that meet unique needs.

Disasters can strike at any time, but with a proactive approach, businesses can be prepared to handle any challenge. Building resilience and ensuring continuity is essential for safeguarding business operations and minimizing financial loss.

This content was originally posted on Medium.

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How do technology companies manage the continuous demand for innovation while grappling with stringent budget constraints and evolving market expectations? In 2024, firms face a relentless challenge to integrate cutting-edge technologies into new products, all while optimizing operational efficiency under financial pressures. This article explores the aspects that influence the tech world, ranging from the integration of innovative technologies to the dynamics of IT spending and consumer satisfaction. By analyzing critical statistics from industry-leading surveys and reports, we uncover the challenges and opportunities that define the landscape of technology and its impact on both companies and consumers.

Integration of Technologies and Innovation Pressure

For technology-focused businesses, innovation is not just a buzzword but a survival strategy. According to the KPMG 2023 US Technology Survey, 58% of technology sector executives report that their primary challenge is the increased pressure to create new product features by integrating multiple technologies.¹ This indicates a broader industry trend where the rapid pace of technological advancement is not just an opportunity but also a considerable strain.

Companies are compelled to explore and adopt a multitude of emerging technologies—ranging from AI to IoT—each promising to be the next big revolution. The integration of these technologies is not merely about keeping up with competitors but about redefining market standards and consumer expectations. The drive to innovate under pressure not only pushes companies towards technological breakthroughs but also demands a high level of agility and creativity from their leaders.

Budget Constraints and Productivity

The pressure to innovate is juxtaposed with stringent budget constraints. The KPMG 2023 Global Tech Report highlights that 65% of tech companies are expected to do more with less, with reduced budgets compared to the previous year.² Meanwhile, the Deloitte Tech Trends 2023 report indicates that 72% of digital leaders have witnessed improvements in employee productivity due to digital transformation.³

These insights underscore a critical balance that companies must achieve—enhancing productivity without proportional increases in budgets. Leveraging technology for digital transformation presents a solution, allowing businesses to automate processes, enhance decision-making, and optimize resource allocation. The key challenge lies in strategically investing in technologies that yield the highest return on investment in terms of productivity.

Future Trends in IT Investment and AI Adoption

Despite the economic uncertainties, the technology sector continues to see optimistic investment forecasts. In its 2024 Outlook Technology Report, Deloitte predicts an 8% growth in global IT spending,⁴ suggesting a strong confidence in tech development’s ROI. Concurrently, Horton’s anticipates that 75% of software engineers will use AI coding assistants by 2028 in its 2024 Tech Trends report,⁵ signifying a shift towards more automated and sophisticated tools in software development.

This indicates not only a robust investment climate but also a transformative shift in how technology is being developed and utilized. The integration of AI tools in software engineering is set to redefine the traditional methodologies, leading to faster, more efficient, and potentially more innovative development cycles. Such trends are pivotal for tech companies aiming to lead in innovation and efficiency.

Executive Confidence and Technological Adequacy

Confidence among executives regarding their technological capabilities remains high, with 70% expressing confidence in achieving their goals using existing technologies,¹ reveals a significant alignment between strategic goals and technological capabilities within organizations.

This confidence likely stems from successful past integrations of technology that have led to measurable benefits, such as increased market reach or improved operational efficiency. It also points to a maturity in the technology lifecycle where existing tools can still provide competitive advantages without immediate upgrades or overhauls. For tech leaders, maintaining this confidence requires ongoing evaluation of tech capabilities against strategic objectives to ensure they continue to align effectively.

Consumer Experience and Market Expectations

A staggering 94% of consumers report frustration with disjointed experiences when interacting with organizations.⁶ This statistic highlights a significant gap between technological advancements and their implementation in user-friendly ways.

Improving consumer experience is crucial, as it directly influences satisfaction and loyalty. Tech companies must therefore focus not only on the backend integration of new technologies but also on how these technologies are experienced at the consumer level. Ensuring seamless, intuitive, and cohesive interactions across various platforms and touchpoints can substantially enhance consumer perceptions and foster stronger brand connections.

The technology sector’s landscape is complex and challenging, yet ripe with opportunities for those who can skillfully navigate the pressures of innovation, budget constraints, and consumer expectations. Understanding the nuances of this dynamic—through the lens of key industry statistics—provides valuable insights into strategic decision-making. For tech leaders and companies, the goal is clear: innovate effectively, manage resources wisely, and always keep the consumer experience at the forefront of technological integration. By doing so, they can not only survive but thrive in this competitive industry.

Sources:

1. “KPMG 2023 US Technology Survey.” KPMG, 2023,
   kpmg.com/kpmg-us/content/dam/kpmg/pdf/2023/2023-kpmg-us-tech-survey.pdf
2. “KPMG 2023 Global Tech Report.” KMPG, 2023,
   assets.kpmg.com/content/dam/kpmg/xx/pdf/2023/09/kpmg-global-tech-report.pdf
3. “Tech Trends 2023: Life Sciences perspective.” Deloitte, 2023,
   www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/us/Documents/life-sciences-health-care/us-tech-trends-2023.pdf
4. “2024 Outlook Technology Report.” Deloitte, 2024,
   www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/us/Documents/technology-media-telecommunications/2024-tmt-outlook-technology.pdf
5. “Tech Trend 2024 Report.” Horton, 2024,
   hortoninternational.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Tech_Trend_2024_Report-2.pdf
6. “2023 Digital Trends: Financial Services in Focus.” Adobe, 2023,
   business.adobe.com/content/dam/dx/us/en/resources/digital-trends-financial-services-2023/adobe-digital-trends-2023-fsi.pdf

This content was originally posted on Medium.

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In a rapidly evolving business landscape, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are at a critical juncture where adopting advanced technologies is no longer a luxury but a necessity for survival and growth. Artificial Intelligence (AI), once the preserve of large corporations with deep pockets, is now becoming the driving force behind SMB competitiveness and operational efficiency. The rise in AI adoption among SMBs signals a transformative shift towards digital agility that could redefine success in this dynamic sector.

Digital Transformation as a Competitive Necessity

A recent survey by AI4SP and Microsoft found that 52% of SMBs are utilizing AI tools within their operations, reflecting a substantial move towards digital transformation. This statistic is more than a number; it underscores the broad-based recognition among SMBs of the imperative to integrate technology into their business models. This shift is driven by the need to remain competitive in an environment where agility, responsiveness, and innovation are paramount.

The importance of this transition cannot be overstated. For SMBs, digital transformation through AI adoption is not just about keeping up with trends but about establishing a foundation for sustainable growth. The ability to harness AI for tasks such as data analysis, customer relationship management, and even automated customer service allows SMBs to punch above their weight, competing with larger players in their industries.

However, this integration does not come without challenges. It necessitates a willingness to invest in new technologies and an openness to partner with digital experts who can enhance in-house skills. It’s critical for SMBs to not only adopt AI but to foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptation to maximize the potential of these powerful tools.

Proven Effectiveness of AI in Business

The benefits of AI in SMB operations are not merely theoretical. An overwhelming 91% of businesses that have integrated AI report that it has made their operations more successful,¹ pointing to tangible outcomes such as improved efficiency and heightened business success. Furthermore, a remarkable 82% of AI-adopting businesses maintain an optimistic outlook on AI’s potential to propel future growth.² These insights reveal a growing confidence among SMBs in AI as a tool for long-term prosperity.

The optimism is well-founded. AI-driven analytics can offer deep insights into market trends and customer preferences, allowing businesses to tailor their strategies effectively. AI-powered automation can streamline operations, reducing the workload on human staff and minimizing the scope for error. These benefits contribute to a business environment where decision-making is informed, strategic, and forward-looking.

Yet, to truly leverage AI, SMBs must move beyond mere adoption to an understanding of its potential. Sharing success stories and practical use cases can provide the necessary blueprint for others to follow. These narratives can illustrate how AI is not just a technological upgrade but a transformational tool that can revamp the entire business process, driving growth and innovation.

Bridging the AI Knowledge Gap

Despite the promising outlook, a significant knowledge gap exists. About 74% of SMBs have expressed interest in AI, yet many admit to having only a rudimentary understanding of its benefits.¹ Additionally, 70% would be willing to invest more in AI and automation, indicating a clear demand for accessible AI solutions and education.¹ This gap represents a dual opportunity for both the providers of AI technologies and SMBs themselves.

For technology providers, there is a burgeoning market for AI tools and services that cater specifically to SMBs. There’s a call for offerings that demystify AI, providing intuitive platforms that do not require deep technical expertise to manage. For SMBs, there’s a pressing need to invest in AI literacy, ensuring that the workforce can adapt to and exploit these new tools effectively.

Developing and promoting AI-focused training programs and resources can empower SMBs to bridge this knowledge gap. These initiatives can help SMBs navigate the complexities of AI and automation, enabling them to unlock the full spectrum of benefits these technologies offer.

Cost Savings Through AI

The financial incentives of AI adoption for SMBs are clear and compelling. 58% of SMBs anticipate saving over $1,000 in the coming year due to the integration of AI and automation technologies.¹ Moreover, 60% of SMBs report that using AI has increased the efficiency of their operations.¹ These savings are not just a reflection of reduced direct costs but also an indicator of broader operational efficiencies.

Implementing AI can lead to more streamlined workflows, where tasks are performed more quickly and with fewer errors, reducing the need for costly revisions and do-overs. It can also enhance the precision of marketing campaigns, ensuring that dollars are spent targeting the prospects most likely to convert. For SMBs operating on tight margins, these savings can be the difference between stagnation and growth.

Encouraging SMBs to explore AI for both cost management and operational enhancements can lead to improved profitability. As AI technologies become more accessible and their applications more widespread, SMBs that embrace these tools can achieve greater financial health and allocate resources to areas that foster growth and innovation.

The strategic adoption of AI technologies across the SMB sector is demonstrative of a paradigm shift towards enhanced operational efficiencies, cost savings, and an optimistic outlook on future growth. As businesses become more cognizant of the multifaceted benefits of AI, they are progressively gearing up for a deeper integration of these technologies into their core operations. This evolving trend is mirrored in the growing willingness among SMBs to channel investments into AI solutions, recognizing them as pivotal in maintaining competitiveness in a swiftly transforming market landscape.

These developments allude to a future where SMBs’ success is increasingly influenced by their effective utilization of AI technologies. The evidence underscores the need for continued education and robust support systems to fully harness AI’s potential in bolstering business practices and achieving enduring growth. As more SMBs pivot towards this technological awakening, those who navigate the AI transition effectively are poised to redefine the benchmarks of business excellence and sustainability in the digital era.

Sources:

1. “Small Business Now: An AI Awakening.” Constant Contact, 2023,
   news.constantcontact.com/small-business-now-ai-2023,
   drive.google.com/file/d/17tID61RqIGJVRCMr2SHaSeYZSW5NSg8l/view
2. “Empowering Small Business: The Impact of Technology on U.S. Small Business (Second Edition).” U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 2023,
   uschamber.com/small-business/smallbusinesstech,
   uschamber.com/assets/documents/The-Impact-of-Technology-on-Small-Business-Report-2023-Edition.pdf.

This content was originally posted on Medium.

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I recently discussed the impact of technology on our society at the Online Dinner Party podcast with Marc Lee. In this discussion, we covered a range of topics related to the intersection of technology and society, including the role of social media, the ethics of data collection, and the future of artificial intelligence.

One of the key points I emphasized during the conversation was the importance of responsible technology development. As someone who has worked in the tech industry for years, I have seen firsthand how new technologies can have both positive and negative impacts on our world. It’s crucial that we take a thoughtful and intentional approach to technological innovation, always considering the potential consequences of our actions.

We also discussed the role of social media in shaping our online discourse and the impact it can have on our society. While social media has the power to connect people from all over the world, it can also be a breeding ground for misinformation, hate speech, and other harmful content. We need to find ways to mitigate these negative effects while still leveraging the benefits that social media can bring.

Another important topic we covered was the ethics of data collection. As more and more of our lives are lived online, companies are collecting vast amounts of data on our behaviors and preferences. While this data can be used to improve products and services, it also raises serious questions about privacy and control. As a society, we need to have a frank conversation about what kind of data collection is acceptable and what kind of safeguards we need to put in place to protect our personal information.

Finally, we delved into the future of artificial intelligence and what it means for our society. While AI has the potential to revolutionize many aspects of our lives, there are also concerns about job displacement, bias, and other unintended consequences. It’s important that we approach the development of AI with a critical eye, always considering the potential risks and benefits.
Overall, my conversation with Marc was a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the impact of technology on our society. While there are certainly challenges that come with technological innovation, I believe that if we approach these challenges with care and responsibility, we can create a future where technology serves the common good.

Here’s the full interview:

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Here’s the full interview:

Get the bonus Q&A with the audience by visiting GreatTechPros.com.

Here are a few video clips from the discussion:

• Business Partnerships, Relationships and Trust.
• Working with a Partner to help meet a Client Objectives.
• Contractors, Vendors and meeting client needs.
• Handling Partnership Challenges.
• Partner Expertise and Education.
• Post-Interview: Thoughts on the Value of Business Partnerships.

Connect with Traci: 

You can connect with Traci on Linkedin and by visiting Temple-IT.com. 

Watch or Listen to Great Tech Pros anytime, anywhere.

• Watch on YouTube, 
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• and more.

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Here’s the full interview:

Get the bonus Q&A with the audience by visiting GreatTechPros.com.

Here are a few video clips from the discussion:

• Difference between Individual Contributor to Business Leader.
• Defining a Win as Individual Contributor vs Business Leader.
• Challenges when Moving into Tech Management.

You can connect with Jason on Linkedin, Facebook and Github. 

Watch or Listen to Great Tech Pros anytime, anywhere.

• Watch on YouTube, 
• Tune in on Facebook Watch, 
• Listen on Google Podcasts, 
• Be all ears on Spotify, 
• Eavesdrop on Apple Podcasts, 
• and more.

Get more great content at WylieBlanchard.com... Need a great speaker for your next event, contact us to book Wylie Blanchard now.
Learn what clients are saying about his programs....

Here’s the full interview:

Get the bonus Q&A with the audience by visiting GreatTechPros.com.

Useful Links:

• You can connect with Sean on Linkedin. 
• Regulatory Compliance in the United States. 

Watch or Listen to Great Tech Pros anytime, anywhere.

• Watch on YouTube, 
• Tune in on Facebook Watch, 
• Listen on Google Podcasts, 
• Be all ears on Spotify, 
• Eavesdrop on Apple Podcasts, 
• and more.

Get more great content at WylieBlanchard.com... Need a great speaker for your next event, contact us to book Wylie Blanchard now.
Learn what clients are saying about his programs....