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How engineering businesses can harness the potential of AI

Alan King, IMechE head of global membership strategy & AI

(Credit: Shutterstock)
(Credit: Shutterstock)

Alan King, author of a new IMechE report on artificial intelligence, gives his recommendations for how businesses can grasp its potential.

1

Stay informed about the latest AI developments, tools and trends, and engage in discussions with AI experts and thought leaders to gain insights into emerging technologies and their potential applications.

2

Collaborate with industry partners, academic institutions and other organisations to share knowledge related to AI implementation. Joint research projects and partnerships can lead to valuable insights and innovations, while fostering a sense of community and collective progress in the AI domain.

3

Establish a dedicated AI team or appoint AI champions within the organisation to drive AI initiatives, promote innovation and support the integration of AI technologies. These individuals should have a strong understanding of AI applications and their impact, as well as the ability to communicate the benefits and challenges of AI adoption to various stakeholders.

4

Assess the organisation’s technological infrastructure and capabilities to identify areas for improvement. This may include upgrading hardware, investing in new software tools, implementing data management systems, or adopting cloud-based solutions, ensuring a robust foundation for AI adoption.

5

Develop a comprehensive AI strategy that outlines clear objectives, timelines and performance metrics to track progress and measure the success of AI implementation.
This strategy should consider the ethical implications of AI adoption and include guidelines for responsible AI usage.

6

Ensure that data privacy and security adhere to regulations and industry standards while utilising AI technologies. Implement robust data protection practices to safeguard sensitive information and maintain customer trust. 

7

Develop ethical guidelines for AI usage within the organisation, addressing issues such as transparency, accountability and fairness in AI decision-making processes. These guidelines should be communicated to all employees and stakeholders and regularly reviewed to ensure ongoing compliance.

8

Foster a culture of learning and professional development, providing employees with the resources and training to adapt to the changing landscape driven by AI advances. Encourage collaboration so that everyone can contribute to the AI journey. 

9

Monitor the impact of AI initiatives on the organisation’s performance, customer satisfaction and other key indicators. This will ensure that the organisation is leveraging AI technologies effectively to drive growth and innovation.

For more context and information, read the full report: Harnessing the Potential of AI in Organisations

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Content published by Professional Engineering does not necessarily represent the views of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

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