How Does AI Help With Automation?

Since the advent of the Industrial Revolution, the need for high-end machinery and tools has been most demanding. But this phase of the industrial revolution, i.e. “Industry 4.0,” demands advanced innovations to simplify in-house procedures.

In the third decade of this 21st century, if a modern business wants to strive for success, it has to keep on transforming in leaps and bounds. Amongst all innovative breakthroughs, AI and ML are the most ground-breaking advancements ever witnessed in the modern business landscape.

Formulating strategies by leveraging these technologies allows firms to stay more inclined towards accuracy, affordability, and, most importantly, productivity. That’s where the concept of automation comes into being. But before outlining the role of AI in automation, it is time to understand the concept of AI and automation.

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An Overview of Automation: Meaning, Definition & Examples

While you may think automation and AI are both similar, they have significant differences. But there’s a connection between automation and AI. Put simply, the best example of automation is a machine. It does repetitive and simple tasks that follow instructions and workflows that professionals set.

These tasks are predictable and perform the job over and over again. Take the example of a machine in any factory that performs a task in the same process repeatedly. Conventional methods of automation were associated with human supervision and manual configuration for execution.

That means there should be a human being to anticipate the tasks and take care of the programming process for the machine to work accurately each time it is in operation. Continuous vigilance is compulsory in this type of process, and so are adjustments (when the environment changes). So, it can be stated that AI does not perform the same tasks as automation.

An Introduction to AI

As you already know, automation is a machine. So, if a job is not outlined precisely, that machine won’t be able to perform it. But artificial intelligence allows the machine to take rules described by a human only to determine its own way to success. AI learns what can work and identifies what does not work. Thus, AI’s performance is sure to improve with time.

Artificial intelligence can leverage data to mimic human intelligence. What’s more is that it can allow the system to discover, predict, and analyse what needs to be done. AI capability includes NLP or natural language processing, facial recognition, and computer vision. 

Combined with deep learning and machine learning, AI can use different algorithms to discover signals in data & find the right solutions that are impossible for any human. 

Also read: Artificial Intelligence: A Beginner’s Guide

The Intangible Connection between AI & Automation

The most common denominator for automation and AI is that they run both on data where automated machines collate data and AI systems then interpret it. That’s where the gap is bridged between the two. The role of AI in automation is crucial as it helps collect & transfer data. One can easily understand the data and base automated actions on the understanding.

Outlining the Role of AI in Enhancing a Business’s Automation Process

From voice-centric searches to ATM transactions, automation has altered how individuals interact with machines. And it is not anything surprising to note that the innovation is progressing & exploring new avenues with AI-based automation.

Now, what do you mean by AI-based automation? In simple language, IPA or Intelligent Process Automation is arranged into the following four important components that can bring strength to the process. Here’s a rundown of those elements:

• ML or Machine Learning 
• NLP or Natural Language Processing 
• Intelligent Workflows and 
• RPA or Robotic Process Automation 

AI automation happens to be proactive in resolving issues without human interference. Let’s give you an example of this concept to make you better understand the matter.

Take the manufacturing universe, for example, which has multiple procedures optimised with automation like production, compliance, logistics, workplace safety, supply chain, etc. 

But there’s no denying the fact that automating a business tactic is just half the job done because scaling holds paramount importance. That’s where AI automation allows the manufacturing industry to accelerate the process & overcome challenges. 

The best part of leveraging AI in the manufacturing universe is identifying innovations to reduce expenses. Predictive analytics based on AI can gather data from devices and sensors. It can identify unnatural behaviour in production and anticipate each asset’s life cycle.

From collecting real-time and historical data to determining equipment repair or failure, it does everything in between. So, it allows the professionals to know which parts need repairs or replacements. That way, a firm can avoid unexpected breakdowns and reduce downtime problems too.

Also read: What Is AGI vs. AI: What’s the Difference?

Computer Vision and AI: Importance and Role

Combined with various technologies, AI has the power to execute an automation procedure with maximum accuracy. One of them is computer vision. AI-driven computer vision is a game-changer in the world of technology as it does the same job of visualising and analysing objects, nothing, unlike human eyes. 

Since it is a technological revolution, it performs the job better than the human eye. In just a couple of minutes, it can predict & analyse a multitude of business procedures by using data, algorithms, and cameras. By taking the human perspective, it can examine objects and accelerate the process of automation. 

AI’s role does not end here. Even for quality inspection, a business can implement AI in automation. Besides, workplace safety and predictive maintenance are two prime reasons why AI has become important in business automation.

Perks of Implementing AI Automation in a Business Process

AI and automation have already started transforming the business domain. Let’s discover the top benefits of AI automation in the following points:

• Improved Work Performance

Productivity is an important aspect that evaluates the company’s success. With AI automation, a company can improve the work performance of employees. AI-driven virtual assistants assist workers in completing tasks faster.

AI offers automated reporting with which a business receives real-time data to make well-informed decisions. The most excellent part of leveraging AI automation is that it can free up time for other prioritised jobs. 

• Greater Efficiency

Which business wouldn’t want to automate manual tasks? With AI & automation, you can eliminate the requirement of hiring multiple employees for certain positions. Instead, you can free them up from working in a certain position to concentrate on more creative jobs.

Take AI-driven chatbots that can handle service inquiries of your business. It allows other customer support professionals to handle complex issues experienced by loyal clients. AI offers automated scheduling too.

• Optimise Operations and Increase Bottom-Line Outcomes

Once you start automating a few manual tasks of your business, your bottom-line results automatically improve. Not to forget, it reduces the labour expense and increases work efficiency. In addition, it can also offer valuable insights to perform the jobs accurately. Finally, AI automation allows your business to identify key areas that need improvements.

Also read: How will Artificial Intelligence Affect Jobs 2025-2030

• Data Analysis Becomes Straightforward

With AI automation, a company can receive powerful data analysis technologies that allow for gaining insights into the operation. Take the example of AI algorithms that analyse massive data and identify key trends and patterns for better decision-making. With automated reporting, your business offers real-time data. So, ultimately, it can make well-informed decisions.

Also read: Salary Range for AI Professionals in 2026

Industries Embracing AI and Automation: A Few Examples

Here’s a list of examples of industries that have embraced AI and automation:

• Manufacturing

As described above, the manufacturing industry is using AI-driven analytics to improve work efficacy, reduce downtime, and increase workers’ safety. AI enhances asset utilisation and performance by predicting sudden equipment breakdown. In fact, businesses identify underlying causes for losses.

• Real Estate

AI automation has been introduced to the world of real estate. AI-driven house portals display properties that suit customers’ demands. Chatbots allow customers to discover the amenities of these properties without the involvement of customer support associates. In addition, this type of technology also enhances the overall buying procedure.

• Medical

With artificial intelligence, diagnosing and offering treatment has become easier. AI systems can detect patients’ conditions instantly. From offering diagnostic support to detecting diabetic symptoms, it does it all. Implementing AI assists healthcare professionals in diagnosing ailments faster via the use of data collected from AI and ML algorithms. 

• Cybersecurity

Artificial intelligence in cybersecurity can reduce or eliminate complicated tasks performed by humans manually. What it does is scans data & identifies threats, thereby reducing malicious activities. 

Besides, AI has been embraced by other industries like education, finance, transportation, robotics, and more. 

Also read: Top AI Jobs in the US

The Future of AI & Automation

With all the above innovations of AI and automation, it can be stated that these revolutionary advancements are here to stay. Irrespective of the business domain, AI is going to have a strong impact on automating your company tasks by improving its efficacy and enhancing productivity. Besides, it is poised to have significant impacts on environmental issues, climatic changes, and sustainability. 

Combined with automation, AI is the future of companies to improve efficacy and performance. Considering the foreseeable future, AI automation is set to become the only mode for delivering customised touch points for a better user experience around digital channels.

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• Executive Diploma in Data Science and AI from IIIT Bangalore 
• LJMU’s Master of Science in Machine Learning & AI 
• IIIT Bangalore’s Executive Diploma in Machine Learning and AI