Jamie Claret: Leveraging AI & Automation for Tangible Business Results 🦾

Summary

In a discussion between James from Sales Builder and Jamie Clarent from Autonomy, they explored the role of AI and automation in Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Jamie emphasized the importance of practical frameworks, like GAINS, to streamline processes and improve efficiency. He highlighted a case study involving a legal firm that automated inbox management to save resources. The conversation also addressed common concerns around security and the need for MSPs to engage with clients proactively about AI. By embracing automation, MSPs can transform challenges into growth opportunities in an increasingly digital landscape.

Takeaways

• 😀 Jamie has over 25 years of experience as an MSP and has transitioned to focus on automation and AI.
• 😀 AI is considered the 'brain' while automation serves as the 'hands' in business processes.
• 😀 The Gains Methodology framework breaks down automation into four key components: Gathering, Action, Intelligence, and Notification.
• 😀 Practical applications of AI, like summarizing emails, can greatly enhance efficiency in businesses.
• 😀 MSPs need to educate themselves about AI and automation to better serve their clients and stay competitive.
• 😀 There is a growing need for MSPs to engage proactively with clients regarding their AI interests and concerns.
• 😀 Security is a major concern in automation; proper practices must be followed to protect sensitive information.
• 😀 MSPs can either build in-house automation capabilities or partner with specialist companies to deliver solutions.
• 😀 Simple automation projects can help MSPs gain experience and confidence in leveraging AI technologies.
• 😀 Regular communication with clients can uncover potential automation opportunities and build stronger relationships.

Q & A

What is the background of Jamie Clarent in relation to AI?

Jamie has over 25 years of experience running a managed service provider (MSP) and has focused on automation and efficiency in recent years, leading to the establishment of an automation business.

What does RPA stand for, and how is it used by large companies?

RPA stands for Robotic Process Automation, and it has been utilized by large companies to replace human roles with software robots to improve efficiency, often resulting in significant job reductions.

Why do MSPs struggle with implementing AI and automation?

MSPs often lack the necessary skill sets for running an AI business, which requires expertise in business analysis, development, and project management, as opposed to just technical support.

What is the 'gains methodology' mentioned by Jamie, and how does it assist MSPs?

The gains methodology helps break down processes into four components: Gathering, Action, Intelligence, and Notification, making it easier for MSPs to identify which parts of a process can be automated.

Can you provide an example of how the gains methodology applies to a legal firm?

In a legal firm, the methodology can streamline the process of handling client inquiries by automating email monitoring, sorting, and summarizing them for efficient response management.

What is a common misconception about AI among MSPs?

Many MSPs tend to focus on the advanced capabilities of AI without considering the foundational steps of automation, which are essential for practical implementation.

What tools does Jamie recommend for MSPs looking to implement automation?

Jamie suggests starting with tools like Microsoft Power Automate and exploring options such as Zapier or Make for easier automation integration.

How can MSPs position themselves as leaders in AI for their clients?

MSPs should proactively engage with clients about AI, educating them and understanding their needs, to establish themselves as trusted advisors in the evolving tech landscape.

What risks do MSPs face if they do not engage with AI technologies?

If MSPs ignore AI, they risk losing business to competitors who offer automation solutions and potentially expose their clients to security vulnerabilities by not addressing unregulated use of AI tools.

What steps should MSPs take to begin integrating AI into their services?

MSPs should first educate themselves about AI capabilities, gather feedback from clients about their experiences and concerns with AI, and then start implementing simple automation processes to demonstrate value.