A CEO's Guide to Leveraging AI to Maximize Human Capital and Drive Growth

Written by Rizwan (Riz) Somji, CEO

The first time that I can remember hearing about AI was in university while studying robotics.  

More than anything, I remember the way that it deeply shifted the way that I thought about information. Even then, it was clear to me that AI would alter the way that businesses function. More than that, it would alter the way that humans work, expanding our capabilities into areas that weren’t always possible.  

Throughout my career, I am always looking for new ways to test and leverage AI, maximizing its intended use. It’s about more than automation and insight gathering – it’s about innovation.  

Access 

At Cymax Group, we work with businesses of all sizes. Some have more resources than others, and some are simply new to the industry and trying to find their footing. 

While advanced technological capabilities were typically only available to large and well-established businesses, the advancement and increased accessibility of AI has changed the game. With the right people, even small to mid-size furniture vendors have the potential to surpass competitors in an otherwise unavailable market.  

AI was, and continues to be, the key to automating intelligence.  

Efficiencies 

In my career, I have watched as AI evolves. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has shifted from a solution to small manual tasks to the advanced decision making and problem-solving abilities of machine learning (ML).  

Businesses will benefit from the additional resources that AI enables. As teams become relieved of manual/medial tasks, their time, focus, and abilities will grow.  

The supply chain, for example, will see the benefits of AI-enabled efficiencies as they optimize processes. When properly used, businesses could see a reduction in returns, cancellations, damages, claims, transportation costs, and so on. Consumers will benefit from quicker delivery time and a focus on customer experience.  

At Cymax Group, our teams and partners continue to thrive on the back of the creative innovation and efficiencies that AI has enabled. 

Thinking About AI in 2023 

AI will challenge the way you think.  

It will be uncomfortable and may force you to let go of the way that you did things before. It will transform the way that you think about your business.  

My advice is to embrace it anyway.  

If you don’t have the expertise on your team to pursue AI with confidence, find a partner that does.  

AI creates space for a bigger human element in the furniture industry. Automate what makes sense, and double down on relationships with your customers, partners, and teams. 

You won’t regret it.   

 -- Rizwan (Riz) Somji, CEO