AI virtual assistant development: Use cases and benefits

Computers, the Internet, digitalization, technological development, artificial intelligence, etc. All these advancements have completely changed the way companies do business. In this matter, we could say that our lives will never be the same again! What should companies do then? How do you stay competitive? Should you worry about being replaced by AI? There are many questions that raise concerns. However, when properly established, all top-notch developments work only for the better.

In terms of artificial intelligence, we would rather say that only those who don’t incorporate AI may be replaced by those who involve it. Especially when we speak about AI assistant development services that are gaining traction. These advancements have significantly revolutionized how businesses interact with customers and manage their internal operations. When speaking of such services, we should point out the most impactful ones – virtual assistants. These smart systems are specifically designed to manage various manual and monotonous tasks, which improves efficiency and streamlines user experiences. This way, companies may focus more on what is essential. Let’s discover more about how these assistants can optimize workflows and transform industries.

Source: https://otakoyi.software/blog/transforming-workflows-the-power-of-ai-virtual-assistant-development

How do you define AI virtual assistant?

The definition of an AI virtual assistant is rather simple (the concept is already put into its name). For you to understand, it is a software application that is developed using natural language processing (NLP), machine learning (ML), and automation (as well as some other technologies) to perform various tasks within the organisation.

These assistants have different purposes and usages. They can engage with users via text, image, or voice interactions. As a result, they are very easy to be adaptable to different industries and use cases. Simply put, when you enter most websites nowadays, you can see a pop-up window with a virtual assistant asking you, “How can I help you?”

E-commerce stores are probably the most common users of virtual assistant development services, and we’d like to give an example of the Sephora virtual assistant that was introduced back in 2016.

Source: https://cosmeticsbusiness.com/sephora-introduces-chatbot-that-can-reserve-appointments-122631

However, in recent years, these “helpers” have become widespread among all businesses and industries. Let us introduce you to the reasons for such popularity and later move on to some use cases.

What makes AI virtual assistants so popular?

As we’ve already mentioned, AI advancements are so progressive that they completely revolutionize customer support and administrative work (and not only!). There are many reasons that make virtual assistants so popular, so let’s discover the crucial ones.

1. Instant customer support

AI virtual assistants are available 24/7. So, your customers can get assistance at any time, making your services or products available worldwide, reducing wait times, and improving user satisfaction.

2. Task automation

No more repetitive tasks for your employees! Leave it for the virtual assistant. They can easily handle scheduling, order tracking, and FAQs. You free up a lot of time for your human employees for more complex work.

3. Cost efficiency

These artificial helpers significantly reduce operational costs for your companies and decrease the number of customer service teams.

4. Personalization

There are AI-driven insights that help you customize responses, recommendations, and experiences. Custom-made AI assistants equal tailored services.

Source: https://smallbusiness.co.uk/how-to-get-a-virtual-assistant-in-the-uk-2548435/

5. Omnichannel integration

An amazing advantage of AI virtual assistants is the possibility to involve them across websites, mobile apps, messaging platforms, and voice assistants. It ensures seamless interactions and streamlined workflows.

6. Data collection, reports and analytics

Another crucial reason such assistants are gaining popularity is their ability to gather user insights and data to create reports and analytics. It greatly influences better and data-driven decisions and also helps businesses enhance their services.

7. Multilingual options

As AI development is multifaceted, you can get solutions that support multiple languages. It is a great way to involve customers from the whole world.

8. Enhanced security

It is probably the number one reason to choose AI assistants. It is an especially popular solution song banking and financial applications, as they can implement AI-driven fraud detection and secure authentication functions.

These are just the main reasons for their popularity. But you may have already understood why businesses opt for virtual assistant and how they boost their services.

What are the top use cases of AI virtual assistants?

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of use cases of AI assistants adopted across industries. We’d like to present you with some cases and how they improve productivity.

1. Customer support and chatbots

The most common use cases are chatbots that provide instant responses, resolve common queries, and handle high volumes of requests.

What benefits does it bring?

1. 24/7 availability
2. Cost reduction
3. Personalized interactions

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/28/technology/amazon-ai-chatbot-q.html

2. AI assistants in healthcare

When speaking of healthcare, AI assistants come in really handy. What benefits do healthcare organizations get?

1. Optimized (sometimes even improved) administrative tasks
2. Advanced assistance in diagnostics
3. Virtual patient support (medication reminders, scheduling, etc.)

The most common applications are described in the table below.

3. AI-driven assistants in fintech

Financial institutions have adopted technologies in many aspects of their work. However, AI assistants have taken them to a whole new level with improved customer service, automatic fraud detection, and easy and quick financial planning.

Source: https://www.deloitte.com/nl/en/services/consulting/case-studies/subsidy-assistant.html

Wrapping up, what are the main advantages?

1. Automated fraud detection
2. Financial and investment advice
3. Personal or corporate finance tracking

4. AI assistant in retail and e-commerce

We’ve already mentioned that retailers and e-commerce platforms use AI assistants probably the most. Primarily, such usage is aimed at personalizing shopping experiences, providing better recommendations, handling orders, and providing 24/7 customer support.

What are the most significant benefits?

1. Helps customers faster find products based on their preferences.
2. Provides real-time updates on the order status.
3. Simplifies and automates refund and exchange processes.

Source: https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/retail/how-to-use-amazon-rufus

There are other use cases of AI virtual assistants, e.g., in education, human resources, management, smart homes, real estate, manufacturing, etc. They come in various forms and shapes, serving the same purpose – personalizing your services, optimizing your workflows, and boosting your company’s productivity.

Source: https://www.harbingergroup.com/blogs/how-ai-virtual-teaching-assistants-enhance-instruction-and-learning/

Final words

The decision whether to integrate AI virtual assistants in your business or not is only up to you. Nevertheless, keep in mind that they are already enhancing companies across various industries and are completely transforming the way we do business and provide customer support. If you are really considering this technology, you can always consult with professionals like OTAKOYI, who are ready to provide you with valuable technical insights.