Supporting operators with AI chatbots: consider these risks
Manufacturing companies are actively experimenting with AI chatbots to support operators during malfunctions. A digital assistant that immediately provides the right instructions sounds ideal. However, it’s not as easy as it seems, and there are important risks to consider.
The great power of AI
More and more organizations are implementing chatbots to support operators. You load all your available documents, procedures, and instructions into the AI tool, and operators simply ask questions when they need help. The chatbot then functions as an all-knowing colleague who always gives exactly the right advice. At least, if everything goes perfectly…
The risks of AI
AI support promises a lot, but is far from flawless. And mistakes in a factory can have major consequences. Therefore, answer these crucial questions before you start:
- How do operators formulate the right question (prompt) when they need help?
- Are different terms used for the same concept within the organization (and thus the documentation)?
- How do you verify that the answer is suitable for this specific situation?
- Are the source documents up-to-date, and who keeps them current?
- Who bears responsibility for errors? “The chatbot told me to do this…”
By thoroughly answering these questions, you can better manage the risks of AI in a factory environment.
The bridge between AI and experiential knowledge
AI offers, with covered risks, an excellent way to make available information and procedures more accessible. However, there is still no access to knowledge that exists only in people’s minds. ELICIT Online forms an essential bridge here, allowing AI to access the deep experiential knowledge that resides in the minds of your experts. This ensures your operators always have all knowledge about their machines at their fingertips, enabling quick diagnosis, problem-solving, and proactive process control.
Think with us!
At ELICIT, we are actively exploring the possibilities of AI applications, both internally and with our customers. Do you have questions or ideas about applying AI in factories? We’d love to brainstorm with you! Contact us via w.schotborgh@elicitonline.com.
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