What is AI?

AI, or artificial intelligence, is a science of programming computers to have the ability to make human decisions. AI basically simulates human intelligence. It can be used in a wide range of scenarios. The manufacturing industry uses AI to help with productivity and it can be used on tasks as small as talking to Siri on an iPhone.

Artificial intelligence can have a great impact on the modern warehouse in terms of safety, productivity, and accuracy. What is artificial intelligence and where does it fit in a warehouse environment? The definition of artificial intelligence, according to IBM, is “a field, which combines computer science and robust datasets, to enable problem-solving. It also encompasses sub-fields of machine learning and deep learning, which are frequently mentioned in conjunction with artificial intelligence. These disciplines are comprised of AI algorithms which seek to create expert systems which make predictions or classifications based on input data.” Ideally, AI is comprised of systems that think and act rationally.

Here are a few of the many AI functions that can have a positive effect on warehouse operations:

AI is crucial to manufacturing. According to a recent Forbes Insights survey, AI is deemed important today by 44% of those surveyed. In the upcoming five years, 49% say artificial intelligence will be critical to success in manufacturing. Why is AI in manufacturing so important? Artificial intelligence in manufacturing can offer a host of benefits to a manufacturing operation. Let’s look at three ways artificial intelligence technology can be a major benefit to production in manufacturing.