010. AND Digital's AI Accelerator Programme

Client: West Midlands Manufacturing SMEs

Role: Lead UX Designer and AI Adoption Guide

Duration: June – September 2024

Overview

The AI Adoption Accelerator Programme, a collaboration between AND Digital and Tech West Midlands, was a 12-week initiative aimed at empowering manufacturing SMEs in the West Midlands to harness the benefits of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The programme addressed common barriers such as financial constraints, limited time, and talent shortages that often hinder AI adoption in small to medium-sized enterprises.

My Role

As the Lead UX Designer and AI Adoption Guide, I was responsible for guiding participating companies through the process of identifying critical business challenges, exploring the AI problem space, and developing tailored proof-of-concept (PoC) solutions.

My role involved:

• Problem Identification: Collaborating with each company to uncover and define their unique challenges that could be addressed through AI solutions.

• Exploration Workshops: Conducting workshops to delve into the problem space, educating participants on AI capabilities, and brainstorming potential applications relevant to their business contexts.

• Proof-of-Concept Development: Leading the design and development of PoC solutions, demonstrating the feasibility and potential impact of AI within their operations.

Process

1. Discovery Phase

   • Engaged with stakeholders to understand their business processes and pain points.

   • Facilitated sessions to identify areas where AI could drive efficiency and innovation.

2. Exploration Phase

   • Conducted educational workshops on AI fundamentals and ethical considerations.

   • Collaborated on ideation sessions to explore AI applications tailored to each business.

3. Development Phase

   • Designed user-centric PoC solutions, ensuring alignment with business goals and user needs.

   • Oversaw the implementation of PoCs, providing guidance on best practices and iterative improvements.

Outcomes

• Operational Efficiency: Each participating business achieved an average saving of £26,000 annually, with staff members saving up to 7 hours per week due to the implemented AI solutions.

• AI Literacy: Enhanced understanding of AI among participants, with 100% acknowledging improved knowledge of responsible AI use and data infrastructure.

• Satisfaction and Recommendation: 88% of participants expressed willingness to recommend the programme to other SMEs, reflecting high satisfaction levels.

Reflection

This project was a testament to the transformative potential of AI when combined with user-centered design principles. Guiding SMEs through their AI adoption journey not only enhanced their operational efficiencies but also empowered them to continue exploring AI-driven innovations independently. The success of the programme underscores the importance of tailored guidance and practical application in demystifying AI for businesses.

Learnings

• The critical role of clear communication and education in overcoming apprehensions related to AI adoption.

• The value of collaborative exploration in identifying impactful AI applications specific to business needs.

• The effectiveness of developing tangible PoC solutions in demonstrating AI's potential and building confidence among stakeholders.

Conclusion

Participating in the AI Adoption Accelerator Programme was a rewarding experience that reinforced my belief in the power of combining human-centered design with advanced technologies. By focusing on the unique needs and contexts of each business, we were able to deliver AI solutions that were not only innovative but also practical and impactful.