Is AI really the answer to your business productivity problems, or do you need better systems, automation and clearer processes first? In this episode of The Kent Business Show Show, Rachael Bryant is joined by Nick from Select Technology to talk about business systems, automation, AI, IT services, process improvement and the future of work for SMEs. Select Technology is a long-established Kent technology business that began as a computer shop in Sevenoaks in 1994 and has grown into a trusted technology partner for businesses across Kent and beyond. Today, the company helps organisations improve productivity, streamline processes, reduce manual admin and make better use of software, automation and artificial intelligence. Nick explains why many businesses are not being slowed down by a lack of effort, but by disconnected systems, duplicated data entry, spreadsheets, manual workflows and unclear processes. He describes this as “swivel chair working”, where teams constantly move between CRMs, finance platforms, email inboxes, project management tools and spreadsheets just to complete everyday tasks. The conversation also explores the difference between automation and AI. Nick explains that automation is best for repeatable tasks that do not require decision-making, while AI is more useful when a task requires interpretation, judgement, creativity or language-based output. This episode is a practical guide for business owners who want to understand where automation can save time, where AI can add value, and where people still need to remain at the centre of the business. Rachael and Nick also discuss the importance of trust, relationships and accountability in a technology-led future. As more businesses explore AI tools, Nick explains why it is essential to use technology carefully, responsibly and in the right parts of the business. This episode is ideal for Kent business owners, SME founders, operations managers and growing teams who want to improve business productivity, reduce admin, streamline systems and build a more efficient organisation. In this episode, we cover: The story behind Select TechnologyHow a Sevenoaks computer shop became a Kent technology partnerWhy SMEs struggle with disconnected systemsWhat “swivel chair working” meansHow spreadsheets can hold growing businesses backThe difference between automation and AIWhy AI is not always the right solutionHow automation can reduce repetitive adminWhy better systems improve reporting and forecastingHow business owners can build systems for scaleWhy people, relationships and trust still matterThe risks of using AI in the wrong placeWhy accountability cannot be handed over to technologySearch topics covered in this episode include AI for business, business automation, IT support in Kent, SME productivity, business process improvement, automation versus AI, future workplace technology, software systems for SMEs, CRM integration, reducing admin in business, Kent business stories and technology for growing businesses. Find out more about Select Technology:[Insert Select Technology website] Connect with Nick:[Insert Nick’s LinkedIn profile] The Kent Business Show Show shares the stories behind the businesses powering Kent, featuring real conversations with local business owners, leaders and experts. Want to be a guest on The Kent Business Show Show?[Insert guest application link] This episode was produced by Your Video Team and recorded at YV Studios. Your Video Team helps businesses turn conversations into long-form video, podcasts, YouTube content, social media clips and strategic brand assets. Website: https://yourvideoteam.co.uk
