The way we interact with computers to complete tasks has evolved dramatically. We’ve moved from writing complex code, to clicking with a mouse, to using built-in tools inside software. Yet even with all this progress, many digital tasks have still required a fair amount of skill. Take Excel, for example, unlocking its full potential typically demands advanced knowledge.
AI is transforming this paradigm. It allows anyone who can type in plain English to complete complex tasks such as research, analysis, and forecasting, simply by using natural language prompts. What makes it even more powerful is its interactivity: users can ask the AI to refine, revise, or expand on its results, creating a dynamic, conversational workflow.
How Businesses Should Approach AI
The smartest way to get started with AI is to begin with your business's specific needs or weaknesses. Once those are clear, you can explore AI tools that directly address those pain points.
Types of AI Tools
- Generic AI Tools
These are broad-purpose platforms that can handle a wide range of tasks. They rely heavily on prompting and often require back-and-forth interaction to complete more complex work.
Best for:
- Content writing
- Brainstorming
- Ideation
Weakness:
- Not integrated with your workflow (e.g., writing an email still means switching between Outlook and the AI tool)
Popular Examples:
Pro Tip: Google Workspace’s Prompt Library offers great templates to get started by business function. Prompts for Marketing – Google Workspace
- Add-on AI Tools
These tools work as extensions or widgets within the software you already use. They streamline tasks without changing your workflow.
Best for:
- Boosting productivity inside tools like Excel, Word, Outlook, or CRM platforms
Weakness:
- Limited by the functionality of the host software
Popular Examples:
- Microsoft Copilot (for Excel, Word, Outlook)
- Otter.ai (Zoom meeting transcription)
- Intuit Assist
- Generative AI for Spreadsheets
- Specialty AI Tools
These are focused tools built to perform a specific task extremely well. They typically require fewer prompts and deliver high-quality results in a narrow domain.
Best for:
- Creative tasks like ad design, branding, or copywriting
Weakness:
- Limited scope; they can't go beyond their core purpose
Popular Examples:
- Anyword – AI copywriting
- Lovable.dev – Website and brand creation
- AdCreative.ai – Ad design automation
Using AI to Build Your Web Presence
Whether you're launching a new business or refreshing your online presence, AI tools can support every step of the journey:
Branding & Colour Palette
- ChatGPT – Naming and brand identity
- Blaze.ai – Complete brand kits
- Canva Color Palette Generator
- PaletteMaker
Logo Creation
- Wix Logo Maker
- Logo.com
- Canva Dream Studio
- GoDaddy Logo Maker
- (Use ChatGPT for concept ideas before designing)
Content Creation
Website Design
- Durable – AI website builder
- Wix
- Lovable.dev
Community Management
Ad Creation
- AdCreative.ai
- Google Performance Max (auto asset generation)
The Future of Advertising with AI for Small Businesses
Major advertising platforms like Google are building AI-first workflows to make advertising more accessible—even for small businesses without in-house marketing teams.
Soon, running an ad campaign will be as simple as:
- Enter your website domain
- Provide key business info (what you offer and where)
- Set a daily ad budget
- Define your campaign goal (leads, sales, traffic, etc.)
- Approve AI-generated ad assets
After that, the platform takes over—automating audience targeting, bidding, and creative testing to drive results.
Final Thoughts
AI is no longer just a tech trend—it’s a practical tool that can empower any business to compete, innovate, and scale. By choosing the right AI tools and aligning them with your goals, you can streamline operations, improve marketing performance, and build a professional online presence—without the traditional overhead.
Whether you're a solopreneur or part of a growing team, AI levels the playing field. The time to explore and adopt is now.
About the Author: Wisam Abdulaziz
