7 ways businesses are using AI – and how it makes them better 

For many businesses, AI doesn’t mean flashy robots or futuristic technology but tools that automate repetitive tasks or offer predictive insights.

It’s not only about the future – it’s about making things run smoother, smarter, and more efficiently right now.

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Want to know what your competitors are doing and how you can capitalise on this tech?

Here are seven ways businesses are using AI in South Africa right now.

1. Customer service

AI-powered chatbots have become a common tool for handling basic customer enquiries.

These virtual assistants can engage in natural language conversations, resolving common issues like tracking orders, answering FAQs or assisting with product queries.

In doing so, they allow businesses to reduce operational costs while improving the speed and quality of customer support.

2. Marketing and sales

AI-driven platforms like HubSpot and Salesforce can automate lead generation, customer segmentation and targeted messaging.

These tools analyse large datasets to predict customer behaviour and preferences, enabling businesses to personalise their outreach and maximise sales opportunities.

3. Supply chain and inventory management

AI is widely used to optimise supply chains by predicting demand, managing inventory levels and reducing waste.

Retailers like Amazon use AI algorithms to predict when and where demand for products will surge, allowing for efficient restocking and distribution.

4. Human resources

AI tools can help with recruiting by scanning CVs, identifying the most qualified candidates, and even conducting initial interviews through conversational bots.

Along with saving time, AI can reduce bias in hiring.

5. Content production

Thanks to the likes of ChatGPT, more and more businesses are using AI to write reports, create presentations and produce marketing content, including social media messaging, brand videos and blog articles.

6. Accounting and finance

AI can automate many financial processes, from invoicing to expense management.

Tools like QuickBooks and Xero use AI to categorise expenses, detect fraud and reconcile accounts automatically.

AI can also help financial teams analyse spending patterns and forecast future financial performance, allowing businesses to respond to market changes much more quickly than relying on human analysts alone.

7. Manufacturing

AI-driven robots are transforming manufacturing by automating production lines and ensuring quality control.

Predictive maintenance, powered by AI, can alert businesses to equipment failures before they happen, reducing downtime and costs.

Welcome to a new era of automation, efficiency and data-driven decision-making in business – are you in?

For more guidance and tools like this to run your business better, download The Messy Middle report, created by Genfin Business Finance.

Genfin is a proudly South African lender providing flexible, unsecured business funding tailored to meet the unique needs of small and medium-sized businesses.

As a credible and trusted partner, we focus on responsible and sustainable lending, empowering businesses to achieve lasting growth and success.

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