Generative AI & Proposal Automation: Opportunities and Pitfalls

By Jason Anderson – EVP, Sales & Marketing, Expedience Software

In the ever-evolving world of proposal automation, generative AI is a hot topic. As Jason Anderson, EVP of Sales & Marketing at Expedience Software, points out, understanding how to effectively integrate AI into proposal processes can make a significant difference. Here’s a breakdown of the opportunities and pitfalls associated with generative AI in proposal automation.

The Evolution of AI Expectations

Generative AI has come a long way since its inception. According to Gartner’s Hype Cycle, the journey of AI capabilities has navigated through a “Peak of Inflated Expectations,” a “Trough of Disillusionment,” and is now on the “Slope of Enlightenment,” finally stabilizing at a “Plateau of Productivity.” This cycle illustrates how AI’s potential and practical applications have evolved over time.

Transforming Business with AI

You might have heard enthusiastic claims like, “Let’s transform our entire business using generative AI!” Indeed, AI can be incredibly powerful however, it’s crucial to distinguish between aspiration and application when it comes to AI in business contexts.

Where AI Fits: Aspirations vs. Applications

Many organizations express a desire to integrate AI into their proposal processes. But where exactly should AI be applied? The confusion is understandable, given the multitude of voices, competing technologies, and mixed messages about AI’s capabilities. While there’s excitement about AI’s potential, there are also concerns about missing out, job security, and making the wrong technological investment.

Embracing AI: A Balanced Perspective

It’s essential to approach AI with a balanced perspective. As someone who loves technology, I’m excited about AI’s potential. Personally, I use AI daily for tasks like graphics, content creation, photo editing, and brainstorming. AI is undoubtedly here to stay, but the focus should be on “how” to use it effectively rather than debating “if” we should use it.

AI’s Strengths and Limitations

AI excels at probabilistic functions, which involve innovation and creativity. These include:

• Creating win themes
• Brainstorming and overcoming writer’s block
• Organizing and summarizing thoughts
• Crafting engaging titles

However, AI doesn’t always fit well with deterministic functions, which require precision and predictability. For tasks like maintaining accuracy, executing strategies consistently, and providing user guidance, traditional proposal automation software remains essential.

Traditional Proposal Automation vs. AI

Traditional proposal automation offers:

• Precision and reliability
• Predictability
• Trustworthiness through vetted and approved content

On the other hand, AI brings:

• Innovation and creativity
• The potential for fresh, new ideas

Expedience Software’s Approach

At Expedience Software, we leverage a blend of AI and traditional automation to maximize efficiency and effectiveness. Our approach includes:Live Integration with MS Word: Utilizing industry-standard tools for seamless integration.Automating Deterministic Functions: Relying on traditional software for precision tasks.Advancing with Copilot AI: Enhancing automation with the latest AI advancements.Our tools, such as the Proposal Content Library and Assembler, are designed to centralize approved content, ensure consistency, and streamline the proposal process. This combination of AI and automation ensures both creativity and structure, providing powerful synergies for proposal success.

Conclusion

Generative AI and proposal automation each have their strengths and limitations. By understanding where each fit and how to effectively integrate them, organizations can harness the full potential of these technologies to enhance their proposal processes. At Expedience Software, we’re committed to navigating this landscape thoughtfully, ensuring that our solutions are both innovative and reliable.Contact us today to learn more about how Expedience and Microsoft Copilot AI can improve your proposal process!