A recent Gartner survey highlights that nearly 60% of organizations have implemented AI or ML systems, and these investments are set to double within a year. However, the presence of AI alone doesn’t ensure valuable outcomes. For retailers aiming to leverage AI effectively, a strategic approach is essential. Here’s how advanced retailers are maximizing AI’s impact:

1. Understand Customers as Individuals, Not Segments

While AI helps retailers understand customer behaviors, many still rely on segmented insights rather than truly individualized profiles. Advanced retailers utilize deep learning to create a “customer genome,” allowing them to reach each shopper on a personal level and offer more tailored experiences.

2. Build a Unified AI Platform, Not Isolated Models

Connecting AI models on a scalable platform amplifies speed and efficiency. This approach allows up to five times faster data processing and model deployment, enabling rapid experimentation and improved ROI from AI initiatives.

3. Focus on Ethical and Transparent AI Use

Customers expect AI to be used responsibly. Leading retailers integrate model governance throughout the AI lifecycle, including fairness testing and sensitivity analysis, to eliminate biases and ensure ethical use, maintaining trust with customers.

By adopting these practices and leveraging AI-powered tools, retailers can elevate AI from a mere tool to a transformative asset that aligns with business goals and customer expectations. As they focus on individual customer understanding, create unified platforms, and emphasize ethical usage, retailers will not only maximize AI's value but also pave the way for future innovations in the industry.