By Daniel Dern – Artificial intelligence (AI) in business is rapidly becoming a commonly-used competitive tool. Clearly, companies are past debating the pros and cons of AI. From better chatbots for customer service to data analytics to making predictive recommendations, deep learning and artificial intelligence in their many forms is seen by business leaders as an essential tool.

That puts AI in the short-list of technologies that your company should not just be watching, but actively exploring how to take advantage of. It joins leading emerging technologies like Machine Learning, cloud computing and Big Data.

If you aren’t convinced that AI is ready to handle a growing number and range of tasks, consider IBM’s Watson’s 2011 winning performance on Jeopardy. Or consider the various ways you are likely already using AI-enabled devices and services in your personal life, like smart assistant apps or devices like Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s Siri. Not to mention other AI-supercharged apps, such as whatever GPS app you use while driving. Read more: