AI in 30 seconds
Modern AI (specifically "large language models" or LLMs like ChatGPT and Claude) is software that can read, write, and understand human language in a way that feels conversational. It learns patterns from massive amounts of text data, then generates responses based on those patterns.
For most SMBs, the useful applications are simple: answer common questions automatically, capture lead details when you're not available, and reduce repetitive administrative work.
What AI is good at
Understanding questions phrased in many different ways
Generating helpful, contextual responses
Working 24/7 without breaks or sick days
Handling high volumes of similar enquiries
Capturing structured information from conversations
Summarising and searching through documents