"AI techniques solve a wide array of business problems and generate significant returns on investment. However, unbridled hype generated by the industry, the press and overenthusiastic software vendors is creating confusion that makes it difficult for organizations to set the right expectations regarding business outcomes." How can small businesses reduce their risk of AI failure? By focusing on the most practical applications of artificial intelligence for your small business, you can control the scope of your AI system implementation, narrow down your software options, and set realistic goals to measure success. Here, we'll look at three such applications of AI; use cases where AI is delivering real results for small businesses today, instead of promises for tomorrow.

Technological disruptions are driving our current era of rapid business transformation and raising questions about what the future of work might be, the implications for organizations, and how to navigate successfully to the "next horizon." How small businesses respond to the challenges and exploit the benefits of smart technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) will be a key determinant of their success going forward. Artificial intelligence is the rapidly growing field of computer science focused on creating intelligent software tools able to replicate critical human mental faculties. Artificial intelligence is perhaps the most disruptive technology fueling the radical transformation of business; it is truly altering the nature, scope, and scale of today's organizations. With a level of focused attention on the now, the next, and the future of AI, small business leaders will be able to prepare for a range of possible outcomes and increase their organizations' resilience in the face of future uncertainty.