“A significant 64% of businesses believe that artificial intelligence will help increase their overall productivity, as revealed in a Forbes Advisor survey. This demonstrates the growing confidence in AI’s potential to transform business operations.” – Forbes
The concept of a Smart Office, while not a new one, is now fast becoming a commonplace reality as business owners and managers realise the productivity value of automation. The Smart Office solutions are enhanced through AI (artificial intelligence) integration which further frees up employee time and ensures valuable focus is directed to production-enhancing activities.
What is a Smart Office?
This is an office space that incorporates modern technology solutions, including technologically interconnecting devices, to increase employee productivity and efficiency while lowering costs in the office space.
Examples of AI in the workplace
AI is already being incorporated into the workplace across several industries and you have undoubtedly experienced it in some form or another. Some examples of AI improving productivity include:
- Enhanced cybersecurity for companies like AT&T.
- Improved car design by various automotive manufacturers.
- AI is cutting through the administrative processes in the HR department for better hiring and talent retention.
- Programme recommendations by streaming companies like Netflix and Amazon.
- Better virtual meetings for remote working operations.
What does AI do for Smart Offices?
Artificial Intelligence is actually vital to Smart Office management as it enhances efficiency, productivity, and user experience by leveraging data analytics, automation, and machine learning. Here’s the important role AI plays in Smart Office management:
1. Data insights
Data is a valuable business asset and one which AI can analyse and assess quickly and easily. This provides your business with insight into resource use, employee behaviour, and other workplace trends for better decision-making. AI can also use the data insight for predictive analysis which helps with office management aspects such as supply replenishments and resource use.
2. Energy efficiency
With constraints to the national grid and a drive towards energy efficiency across the board, companies are doing what they can to minimise electrical consumption. AI-powered systems can monitor and automate all electrical systems including HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) as well as lighting systems which drastically reduces energy consumption. This form of automation also enhances the daily working experience as employees aren’t having to bother with adjustments – there are even customisable options for individual preferences. AI is also able to assess and alert when maintenance is required to prevent future breakdowns.
3. Hot desking
With the flexible working hours and remote working options available today, many offices don’t assign desks as it’s more cost-effective and time-efficient for people to simply use desks as they become available. This doesn’t need to be a contentious or complicated issue, as AI can track the use of the office space and facilitate hot desking schedules more efficiently.
4. Security
Security in the workplace is becoming increasingly more complex because of enhanced technological risks, which is why AI is such a beneficial addition. AI can manage all the business access controls including facial recognition and other biometrics, card authentication, and more. AI-powered cameras and sensors are identifying security threats and sending alerts in real-time.
5. Administration
AI is about providing support in areas that are routine and often monotonous – such as administrative tasks. AI systems can take over business administration like scheduling meetings, managing emails, processing invoices, and document management which means employees can focus on more valuable work. Virtual assistants – like chatbots – can even answer employee queries, book meeting rooms, and generally streamline operations around the workplace.
What are the benefits of AI in Smart Offices?
The aforementioned role that AI plays in Smart Office management is incredibly beneficial for your business for several reasons. The benefits include:
- Cost savings across the board
- Data-informed decision making
- Predictive maintenance solutions
- More energy-efficient offices
- Much safer office spaces
- Enhanced communication and collaboration
- Flexible workspaces
- More productive offices
If you want your company to benefit from these and many other AI-powered Smart Office solutions, then get in touch with ECN today.