It’s hard to integrate new technologies if we don’t really know what they are! Students and many professionals are embracing artificial intelligence or “AI” for short to simplify daily tasks. But first, what is AI? AI is a type of technology that allows computers and machines to think and learn like humans. Instead of just following instructions, AI can analyze information, recognize patterns, and make decisions based on what it learns. For example, AI is used in chatbots that answer customer questions, in tools that help organize work schedules, and in systems that predict trends by looking at data from the past.
There’s another type of AI called Generative AI, which is a type of AI that can create new content. This can be anything from writing text, generating images, composing music, or creating videos.
Generative AI learns by studying lots of examples, using what it learns to produce something new and original. For example, it can write reports, create graphics, or even generate social media posts, all with little human input.
With this basic understanding, how can AI be used to make daily work easier?
Improve Communication: AI tools can help improve how your team communicates. For example, AI can suggest
clearer ways to write emails, ensuring that messages are understood the first time,
reducing the chances of miscommunication. AI can also help translate messages into
different languages, making communication easier in diverse teams.
Create Better Documents: Generative AI can assist in creating documents faster and more accurately. Whether
writing reports, creating presentations, or drafting emails, AI can draft content
that’s professional and tailored to your needs. This allows your team to focus on
more important tasks that require deeper critical thinking. Every document generated
by AI should be looked at as a “draft,” still demanding the subject matter expert
(manager or individual contributor) review and revise before sending out. 
Streamline Processes:AI can automate routine tasks like scheduling meetings, organizing files, or summarizing
long documents. This makes work processes smoother and more efficient, freeing up
time for your team to focus on bigger projects. By reducing the amount of manual work,
AI helps your team work smarter, not harder. 
Make Better Decisions:AI can quickly analyze large amounts of data and provide insights that help managers
make informed decisions. For example, AI can identify trends or predict outcomes based
on data, which can guide your strategy in areas like marketing, finance, or operations.
This leads to better decisions that can improve your team’s performance.
Foster Innovation:Generative AI can spark creativity and innovation by generating new ideas and content.
For example, it can help your team come up with fresh marketing campaigns, design
new products, or develop creative solutions to problems. By using Generative AI, you
can encourage your team to think outside the box and bring new ideas to the table.
As interesting as AI is, it can’t replace human work and shouldn’t be relied upon to be “foolproof.” AI fuels helpful tools that can improve workplace output. Understanding how and when to use these technologies can help teams and individuals simplify certain tasks, free up creative mental space and lower stress along the way.
This article was originally featured in the teams@work newsletter. Read the full newsletter.