We as a generation and mankind recently outlined a critical milestone in our progress. A robot was recently awarded the citizenship of a country. Robots and automation have broken the shackles of our imagination and have become a part of our reality. While we are still far away from realizing what we have managed to sell in science fiction movies, we are closer than ever. Robots and automation have, until now, allowed machines to act and work like humans. However, inching closer to the robots of tomorrow, we are enabling these inherently non-living beings to think like us.

The fast-rising power and sophistication of artificial intelligence is transforming how insurers engage with their customers. It is dramatically enhancing the experience insurance providers can offer their policyholders. Insurtech start-ups Lemonade, Insurify and Spixii, for example, are deploying intelligent virtual assistants to deliver a powerful customer experience and innovative digital services. Using artificial intelligence to delight customers is not the sole preserve of insurtechs. Large insurers, including Allianz, Credit Agricole, PNB MetLife, GEICO and USAA, are also applying artificial intelligence to heighten the customer experience delivered by their digital distribution channels.

Eighty-four percent of businesses see the use of artificial intelligence (AI) as "essential" to competitiveness, while half view the technology as "transformative," according to Tata Consultancy Services' Global Trend Study released in March 2017. AI, once limited to experimentation within large enterprises and R&D labs, is becoming an accessible and cost-feasible tool for all market segments -- including entrepreneurs and the businesses they run. But, as was the case with cloud computing and big data, broader availability of AI does not by default translate into productivity gains, better customer service or operational efficiency. As vendors bake AI into existing workforce communications and collaboration solutions, they must keep an eye firmly fixed on areas where AI can improve productivity. Here are five ways AI can do just that.