E320: 🎓MENTORING MOMENTS #66 W/GUEST MENTOR BARADA SAHU | HOW AI IS CHANGING ECOMMERCE SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT FOREVER
EMBRACING AI IN eCommerce: A DEEP DIVE WITH Barada OF MASON
In the rapidly evolving world of eCommerce, staying ahead means embracing cutting-edge technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI). Recently, I had the opportunity to engage in an enlightening conversation with Barada Sahu, CEO of Mason on 'The eCommerce Edge' podcast. Together, we explored how AI and workflow automation are transforming the eCommerce sector.
THE ROLE OF AI IN STREAMLINING eCommerce OPERATIONS
Mason co-founded by Barada and his team, stands out as a robust workflow automation tool designed to enhance the efficiency of eCommerce operations. By serving as a crucial bridge, Mason integrates various internal processes, automations and apps, significantly streamlining operations that are typically fragmented and time-consuming. During our discussion, Barada shed light on how embedding AI into Mason has not only simplified but also scaled these processes efficiently.
PREPARING FOR AI INTEGRATION ACROSS BUSINESS OPERATIONS
One key topic we delved into was the readiness of brands for the widespread adoption of AI. Barada emphasized the importance of understanding AI's impact on all facets of business operations. He shared invaluable insights into his journey with AI, tracing back to his experiences in building products and systems at major tech firms. This wealth of experience has equipped him with a unique perspective on leveraging AI and big data to make informed, intelligent business decisions.
AI’S EVOLUTION AND ITS IMPENDING IMPACT
Barada's journey from working with big tech to diving into the startup ecosystem underscores a significant shift towards data-driven decision making. He discussed his initial forays into AI during his time developing enterprise solutions and how these experiences shaped his approach to Mason. By harnessing AI, Mason has been able to offer unprecedented levels of operational efficiency, which is particularly beneficial in the complex world of eCommerce.
THE PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS OF AI IN eCommerce
Our conversation also touched on the practical aspects of AI in business operations. Barada explained that despite the excitement around AI technologies like chatbots and machine learning, the real value comes from applying these tools to enhance business processes. For instance Mason uses AI to automate routine tasks such as campaign management, inventory updates and discount configurations, which are crucial yet labor-intensive activities in eCommerce.
FUTURE TRENDS: NARROW AI AND ITS EXPANDING ROLE
Looking towards the future, Barada predicts a significant role for narrow AI—AI systems designed to handle specific tasks. He believes that as businesses continue to recognize their operational pain points, they will turn to specialized AI solutions tailored to address those specific challenges effectively. This approach not only optimizes operations but also allows businesses to remain agile and responsive in a competitive market.
CONCLUSION: EMBRACING AI AS A STRATEGIC IMPERATIVE
From our detailed discussion with Barada, it's clear that AI is not just a technological advancement but a strategic imperative for eCommerce businesses. As AI continues to evolve, its integration into business operations will no longer be an option but a necessity for those looking to maintain a competitive edge. For eCommerce companies, the journey towards AI integration may be complex but as Mason's example shows, the potential benefits in efficiency, scalability and operational excellence are well worth the effort. Embracing AI, with a thoughtful approach to its implementation and challenges, will be crucial for the eCommerce industry's future growth and innovation.
To learn more, check out the related THE ECOMMERCE EDGE Podcast episode below: