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Small business owners closed out 2024 wondering whether their tech stack could handle not only the rush of the holidays, but also the challenges of 2025. While 40% of SMBs admit to experiencing “About FOMO”, according to a survey conducted by my company Builder.ai, face real obstacles: budget constraints, integration issues and the nagging query: “Is now the right time to jump in?”
Almost ten years ago, software development was an unplanned profession path for me and something I didn’t expect. I used to be the co-founder of my photography company and was frustrated with the developers who supported us at the time. This sparked a lot of ideas related to the query of whether skilled engineers struggle, how can entrepreneurs or startups create their very own applications with little or no technology experience?
I can imagine how difficult it is for small businesses to cut through the noise and stand out during the busiest shopping time of the 12 months. The pressure to effectively promote your business while combining sales, marketing and customer support was overwhelming.
Think of AI as the perfect holiday gift – an initially difficult but ultimately transformative selection. From handling routine customer inquiries to improving inventory management, AI is like having a tireless assistant who never asks for extra time.
The point is that selecting the right AI tool should not be like blindly choosing from a gift catalog. The key is to find a solution that works well with your existing technology and doesn’t feel like a disruption, but relatively a natural extension of your business. Think of it as adding a recent team member who will fit seamlessly into your existing crew.
Deploying AI in uncertain times
In today’s uncertain economic climate, having AI in your corner is like having a business stabilizer. It’s not only about automating tasks – it’s about making smarter, data-driven decisions and a reality check: resistance vs. progress. Small business owners face unique challenges, including adequate support, education, and resources needed to implement AI solutions across their business. In my experience, I’ve seen one of the biggest problems in the tech industry – the overwhelming barriers to entry for entrepreneurs, especially those running small businesses.
Let’s address the elephant in the room: AI is not recent to the market, but its recent explosive growth has many small business owners feeling uneasy. The concerns are real: 29% are frightened about technology failures, 28% about worker rejection, and 27% about costs burning a hole in their pockets, according to a Builder.ai survey. Add to that the 30% who are watching the AI regulatory landscape with raised eyebrows.
While these concerns are valid, I have learned strategies to deal with these concerns and throughout my journey I have discovered that it is not the technology that is the barrier for users, but the need to understand and implement it so that it is accessible and integrated throughout the company. It is extremely essential for small businesses to remain competitive and not fall behind technological advances in their industries. While there are concerns and external aspects to consider, small businesses should adopt AI as soon as possible to improve their business model and return on investment (ROI) as we enter the recent 12 months.
The AI advantage: greater than just a seasonal helper
But here’s an interesting twist – despite these concerns, 54% of small businesses plan to increase their AI investments this 12 months. Why? Because smart business owners know that staying competitive means embracing innovation, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Beyond the chaos of the holidays, artificial intelligence provides advantages all 12 months round. Imagine: smoother app development, higher time management, and communication that flows effortlessly each inside and outside your company. The better part? You’re at all times in control, with transparent processes that keep you in control. Artificial intelligence could also be the support you would like at the end of the 12 months and can streamline processes and increase the efficiency of your overall workflow.
When looking for an AI tool, look for one that may partner with your team and easily integrate with existing technology and existing infrastructure. It must be easy, fully transparent and give small business owners full control over the project they are working on. In uncertain times, artificial intelligence and software solutions can provide the structure and support to keep small businesses running no matter the storm.
The last shot
The holiday season reminds us that sometimes the best gifts are the ones that appear a little intimidating at first. Throughout my profession, I’ve learned firsthand that technology should empower entrepreneurs and make them feel like superheroes, not hold them back. Artificial intelligence may appear to be a complicated gadget that you do not need to unpack, but once you do, you will wonder the way you ever got through without it. And unlike Christmas sweaters that find yourself in the returns pile, it’s an investment that consistently brings value.
For small businesses rushing into 2025, the query isn’t whether to implement artificial intelligence, but how to do it correctly. With the right approach and tools, AI will be the gift your company didn’t know it needed – without the need for a gift receipt.