As companies across various industries continue to embrace automation, the acquisition of startups by established players is becoming increasingly common. A recent example involves Uniphore’s acquisition of Orby AI and its intention to acquire Autonom8. These moves signal Uniphore’s commitment to enhancing its Business AI Cloud, a platform poised to transform enterprise-grade automation.
The push towards automation is not just about improving efficiency; it involves rethinking how information flows and how processes can be streamlined. The integration of AI tools can assist small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in optimizing workflows, improving customer interactions, and ultimately increasing profitability. In this context, understanding how to leverage automation platforms like Make or Zapier becomes a vital skill for SMB leaders.
To implement automation successfully, SMB leaders should start by identifying repetitive tasks that consume significant time and resources. These can include data entry, lead tracking, or customer follow-ups. Once these tasks are identified, the next step is to evaluate automation tools that can be effectively integrated into existing systems. Make and Zapier are user-friendly platforms that allow businesses to automate workflows without the need for extensive programming knowledge.
For example, with Zapier, an SMB can create a workflow that automatically enters new customer information from an online form into a customer relationship management (CRM) system. To set this up, the business would first sign up for a Zapier account and create a “Zap,” which is an automated workflow connecting two apps. The business selects the trigger event — in this case, a form submission — and then specifies the action — transferring data into the CRM. With clear triggers and actions defined, the SMB can alleviate manual data entry, reducing human error and freeing up staff time for other impactful tasks.
Similarly, Make allows for visually designing workflows, making it suitable for those who prefer a more interactive approach. An SMB can drag and drop components to create a flow that, for instance, sends an email notification every time an inventory level drops below a certain threshold. This allows for proactive inventory management, which can improve customer satisfaction and reduce lost sales opportunities.
However, while the opportunities presented by automation are clear, there are some associated risks that SMBs must be mindful of. One primary concern is data security. As businesses automate tasks that involve sensitive information, ensuring the protection of this data becomes paramount. SMBs should choose platforms that adhere to robust security standards and consider encryption measures to safeguard data integrity.
Another risk is the potential for over-reliance on automation. While automating repetitive tasks can enhance productivity, it is crucial to maintain a balance between human engagement and automated processes. Customer interactions still benefit from a personal touch, which automation cannot fully replicate. Therefore, SMB leaders should critically evaluate which aspects of their operations can be automated and ensure that automation does not detract from the quality of customer experiences.
To gauge the return on investment (ROI) of automation initiatives, SMBs should establish clear metrics for success prior to implementation. These metrics might include time saved on manual tasks, increased sales conversion rates, or improved customer satisfaction scores. Regularly reviewing these metrics can help businesses refine their automation strategies and justify the investment in these technologies.
As SMBs look to future-proof their operations, they should also consider the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and business automation. With ongoing advancements in technology, capabilities that once seemed cutting-edge can quickly become standard practice. Keeping abreast of industry trends and continuously investing in training staff on new tools can position businesses to remain competitive.
In conclusion, the acquisition of innovative companies like Orby AI and Autonom8 by firms such as Uniphore reflects a larger trend within the business world: the increasing reliance on advanced automation technologies. For SMB leaders looking to walk this path, understanding the landscape, identifying opportunities for automation, and implementing the right tools can lead to more efficient workflows and improved customer interactions. The future of business automation is bright for those willing to adapt and evolve.
FlowMind AI Insight: Embracing automation is no longer optional for SMBs. By integrating powerful AI-driven platforms into daily operations, businesses can unlock significant efficiencies, driving both growth and customer satisfaction in an increasingly competitive market.
Original article: Read here
2025-08-29 14:31:00