The rapid advancement of technology has introduced two key components that are transforming industries worldwide - Automation and Artificial Intelligence. These components are often used interchangeably in media. They play a crucial role in improving the productivity and efficiency of various purposes.
Although Automation and Artificial Intelligence work similarly in many ways, they’re two different concepts. AI is a field focused on creating machines capable of performing tasks that humans can only perform, such as analyzing data, identifying differences between images, and making decisions.
Meanwhile, Automation refers to using specialized software and technology to complete specific tasks that remain constant over time - for example, streamlining repetitive tasks, such as social media posts, or automatically generating and sending invoices after transactions.
Both Automation and AI change the way we work or live today. In this blog, learn automation and AI and their differences and similarities. Additionally, you’ll learn the uses and benefits.
What is Automation?
Automation involves implementing technologies, programs, or methods to achieve the desired outcome. Human input is minimal in this process.
In simple terms - Automation is about setting up machines to follow orders; if the human input says “one,” the robot needs to proceed as “two.” Pre-defining rules and letting the robots follow orders in the pattern accordingly. That defines automation at its best.
What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
Artificial Intelligence refers to the replication of human intelligence in various aspects. AI analyzes data, understands languages, and makes decisions on human interactions. They use pattern recognition, natural language, problem-solving, and experience learning to perform tasks like humans. Artificial Intelligence aims to enable robots to think, speak, and perform acts like humans.
Automation vs AI: Major Differences Between AI and Automation
As mentioned, automation and AI involve technology in performing our day-to-day tasks. However, the distinct character, features, and applications set them apart from what they are.
Automation here is about setting up the robots to follow the pre-defined rules and instructions, as AI allows the robot to make their own decision.
AI does not have to perform structured information but rather repetitive tasks like automation. Instead, AI is designed to replicate the human intellectual level and perform tasks faster and error-freely based on humans. Current AI trends include the rise of generative AI, where machines create new content such as text, images, and music, and the integration of AI in customer service through chatbots and virtual assistants.
Automation focuses on consistency and reliability in performing tasks, and AI is a more advanced form of automation. It implements the capacity and intelligence of automation, allowing AI to experiment with new data over time and experience. AI performs the tasks in a broader range.
The significant feature difference between automation and AI is that automation is set to follow a set of structured and defined rules. In contrast, AI makes its own decisions through human interaction. AI is designed similarly to babies' minds, where they learn and act as they know rather than just follow instructions.
This is the main reason AI is considered a potential risk. AI also tends to take over jobs and even perform tasks that are measured beyond human capabilities. Sometimes, when you rely on them, they lead to offensive or misinformation,
That is why few AI models nowadays are trained with specific intentions and can learn and grow within a restricted area. For example, Narrow AIs such as Watson from IBM could win the game of Jeopardy, but the model will not be able to win a basic-level chess game.
Differences between Automation and AI
Now let’s understand Automation vs AI in detail:
Bottom Line
By understanding the difference between Automation and AI, organizations can determine whether they are for Automation or AI or Automation and AI. The choice depends on the organization's goals, roles, and responsibilities. Proper integration of either Automation or AI or Automation and AI can drive efficiency and innovation significantly.
Also, if you're looking to upskill yourself in Automation and build a career in Automation, feel free to check out the Automation Testing course offered by StarAgile. This Automation Training provides you with practical knowledge and hands-on experience in Automation.
