Not every AI tool is worth the investment. Learn how to spot real AI opportunities for your business and avoid wasting money on solutions that won’t deliver.

AI adoption is accelerating fast, and new developments in regulation, governance and industry practice mean SMEs can no longer afford to wait. The latest industry changes highlight a growing gap between businesses that are AI-ready and those that risk falling behind. For small and medium-sized enterprises, this shift brings both opportunity and urgency: stronger competitiveness, smarter automation and better decision-making for those who act now – and increased risk for those

AI isn’t just for tech giants. With the right mindset and a few smart first steps, any business can use it to save time, cut costs, and work smarter — without needing a data science degree. For many small and medium-sized businesses, AI already exists quietly in the background — powering tools like Microsoft 365, QuickBooks, or Canva. The real opportunity lies in using it intentionally to solve everyday challenges, not just to tidy up emails or automate admin. This article

Running a small or medium-sized business is no small feat. Every day brings new challenges, from managing operations to engaging customers and staying ahead of the competition. But here’s the good news: AI tools are no longer just for big corporations. They’re accessible, practical, and designed to help businesses like yours thrive. I’m excited to share how AI can boost your productivity and simplify your workload. Why AI Tools for Small Businesses Matter You might wonder, wh

Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept — it’s here and reshaping how businesses of all sizes operate. For SMEs, AI offers powerful opportunities to grow, streamline operations, and stay competitive. But without a clear plan, AI can feel confusing or out of reach. That’s where AI Strategic Playbooks come in. These practical, step-by-step “How-To” guides help you define goals, choose the right tools, and implement AI confidently across your business. Whether

Many SMEs start with AI tools like ChatGPT, Co-pilot, or Gemini for quick wins—emails, reports, or presentations. But tactical gains alone don’t deliver growth. This case study shows how one consultancy moved beyond experiments to embed AI strategically, unlocking efficiency, insight, and competitive advantage with Talisman’s support.

Are you really harnessing AI strategically—or just using it tactically? Discover three tell-tale signs that your business is missing out on AI’s full potential, and how to fix it.

AI tools like ChatGPT, Co-pilot, Gemini, and Asana are everywhere—but are they helping your business strategically, or just tactically? Discover how to move beyond quick wins to harness AI for true competitive advantage.

In today’s fast-paced business world, one-size-fits-all software rarely delivers real impact. That’s why tailored AI solutions matter. Built around your unique goals, customised AI can automate repetitive tasks, predict trends, and provide actionable insights that drive growth. From customer service chatbots to financial forecasting, these solutions adapt to your business—not the other way around. The result? Greater efficiency, smarter decision-making, and a competitive edge

When SMEs think about Artificial Intelligence, the first question is usually: what’s the return on investment (ROI)? That’s a valid concern — cost savings, new revenue, and improved efficiency all matter. But focusing only on ROI can miss a bigger challenge: the time and energy it takes to make AI adoption work. That’s where Return on Involvement (ROIN) comes in. ROIN asks: how much effort is required from you and your team to get value from AI? For busy SME owners already w

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword. For small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), it’s fast becoming the difference...

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: dabbling in AI isn’t the same as understanding it. And it’s definitely not the same as using it to create meaningful value for your business.

The UK Government AI Strategic Playbook is a model of thoughtful, ethical, and outcome-oriented AI adoption. While it’s designed for the public sector, its principles are essential reading for any SME seeking to modernise with confidence.

For many SMEs, business development is part strategy, part instinct, and part juggling act. You might know your key clients well but keeping track of follow-ups, nurturing prospects, or spotting subtle shifts in relationships often comes down to gut feel, inbox searches, and memory. And that’s where AI is starting to quietly elevate what’s possible.

What We Heard from the Frontline Over coffee with my best friend Chris, a procurement lead at a growing UK business, he said something that resonated: “We don’t have a problem with supplier choice - we have a problem tracking how well they perform, when contracts are due, and what risk sits where.” Sound familiar? Many SMEs lack the time, tools, or teams to properly monitor supplier performance or predict issues before they happen. That means missed renewal dates, late deli

Imagine automating your customer support with chatbots that answer questions instantly. Or using AI to analyse sales data and predict trends before they happen. These are not just ideas; they are real tools that businesses use every day. The best part? You don’t need a huge budget or a team of data scientists. Many AI solutions are designed with SMEs in mind, offering easy integration and clear benefits.