How to lessen the fear surrounding artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is here to stay. Believe it or not, AI has been around since the 1950’s. It has just become smarter, more sophisticated, and more widely used.

Let’s face it – people fear change. I can admit that I was weary of it too. But we’ve been using AI for years now. Do you use Siri, talk to text, smart home devices, and google maps? That is ALL artificial intelligence.

Perhaps it’s worthwhile to take a moment to consider the statement about widespread public fear.

“The only thing we have to fear,” said Franklin Roosevelt on his first day as President, “is fear itself.” What he said next is equally important, as he goes on to define what he means by fear: “nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.”

For an organization, the biggest threat isn’t the change itself, but the paralysis that stops the progress. We live in a world fueled by technology and technology is what drives a business forward (it’s people too, of course). Embracing the power of technology will allow business owners and leadership teams to be prepared and/or ready to deal with setbacks or obstacles. Our mantra here at Garnet River is “Cultivating Success” and fear will only hinder us from achieving this goal.

We believe that the fear of AI is based on a lack of understanding of two things: (1) the extraordinary benefits that AI can bring to your organization; and (2) the manner in which you still have control as you take part in the revolution. Remember, AI is a tool, not a human.

At Garnet River, we’ve been on the AI bandwagon for many years. We develop and market AI-based products that harness technology to help streamline our client’s operations: Hindsight365 for performance evaluations; Quidi for document intelligence; Consa for streamlining notetaking for behavioral health professionals. And this is just the beginning …

But most importantly, we’re working to understand the many ways in which AI can change the landscape for our clients. The potential benefits are immense, but it would be improper to suggest that there are no pitfalls – and that’s where control comes in. Our team brings many years of high-tech expertise to the table. We are able to effectively advise our clients, guiding them through the rapidly changing terrain and showing them exactly how AI can help, not hurt.

So don’t be shackled by your fears. Educate yourself. Take a class or do some research. Try ChatGPT. Or better yet, let Garnet River give you the facts and show you the solutions.