“OpenAI has dramatically changed the conversation in a very short time and has put Microsoft at the cutting edge”
Commentator: James Steventon, CEO, Air IT
Focus: Small business-focused MSP with over 500 staff
What generative AI vendors or technologies are you betting on?
As a long-time Microsoft partner, we have a keen interest in the advancements presented by Microsoft Azure’s AI services. Microsoft’s commitment to the AI sector is evident. OpenAI has dramatically changed the conversation in a very short time and has put Microsoft at the cutting edge.
Is generative AI more of an internal or customer-led opportunity for Air IT at this stage?
We’re embedding AI, BI and automation at the heart of our operations. It’s not just an efficiency play; it’s about innovation. We’re investing heavily to continue enhancing the interactions our clients have with us. By learning from error patterns and the events that lead to positive outcomes, we can better meet clients’ needs and address issues proactively.
Where do you see the biggest generative AI opportunity when it comes to customers?
It’s about customer experience for us. We’re starting with aspects of our service that don’t need human intervention. We want clients to be able to do things like request new machines, onboard new users or reset accounts quickly and easily through AI-powered interfaces. It’ll improve user experience, speed and responsiveness and, more importantly, let them focus on their business, not their IT.
To what extent is the rise of generative AI a threat for jobs in the channel (particularly in areas such as marketing)?
We firmly believe that AI shouldn’t be perceived as a threat to jobs. It’s a powerful tool to empower teams and augment human skills. The real danger isn’t AI taking away jobs. It’s businesses losing their competitive edge by not embracing its transformative potential.
Doug Woodburn is editor of IT Channel Oxygen
