MSMEs get lessons to use AI, digital tools to simplify biz processes

Trichy: Tiruchirappalli Industrial Micro Entrepreneurs Association (TIMEA) and Walmart Center for Tech Excellence (WCTE), IIT Madras, conducted a workshop here on Friday for MSMEs and entrepreneurs to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) and data analysis tools to simplify operational workflow. The workshop, organised under the guidance of Facilitating MSMEs of Tamil Nadu (FaMe TN), encouraged MSMEs from the region to opt for AI tools and accelerate digitalisation to grow in the competitive market.Pulok Mohanta, senior project officer, WCTE, explained to MSMEs how digital technologies and AI can drive business growth, enhance operational efficiency, and improve competitiveness. Practical perspectives on adopting digital tools, identifying relevant AI use cases, and building readiness for technology-driven transformation were explained. Instead of relying on traditional methods such as maintaining logbooks to record revenue, manage inventories, and credit details, participants were asked to use digital tools to simplify routine business operations. "Benefits of the Internet of Things (IoT) tools and AI-based solutions were shared for entry-level entrepreneurs. By managing the operational workflow through modern tools, MSMEs can focus on other sectors of their business such as marketing," M Natarajan, Chairman, TIMEA, said. An introduction to data analysis tools, predictive maintenance in manufacturing, and automated quality control using AI were explained in the workshop.