AI Empowers Employees to Upskill, It Does Not Replace Them

Q: What is the overarching mission that Xira aims to fulfill?

A: Xira focuses on providing more time to the world. We have technology at our fingertips that is revolutionizing the way we work, namely AI, which grants us additional time to engage in creativity and pursue remarkable endeavors. Xira focuses on call centers, sales, and collections, using robots to handle tasks such as providing customer service. We also offer voicebots and chatbots as the technology is reaching a stage where individuals are unaware they are interacting with a robot. Our robots possess an extensive repertoire of arguments and historical data, enabling us to excel in sales, customer service, or collections in ways that an individual would not be capable of. We integrate this wealth of information with human input, fostering a collaborative effort aimed at expanding our audience reach, enhancing sales, and providing superior service to our clients.

Q: How does Xira ensure the ethical and responsible use of AI in its solutions?

A: AI raises ethical concerns regarding its potential use in harmful activities or the creation of algorithms trained with biased data. When we use AI, we always disclose it to the public. Mexico does not have a law punishing the use of AI without informing the other party, but we make it clear that it is an AI speaking. We also obtain the consent of individuals whose voices we use for calls. Finally, all the algorithms we develop are open for scrutiny. We provide transparency by allowing access to our database and methodologies. Being transparent is crucial in addressing ethical concerns and ensuring accountability in our practices.

Q: What challenges have you encountered while attempting to implement this technology in the Mexican market?

A: The most daunting obstacle is convincing employees to perceive the value embedded within our solution, as some see it as a threat to their role rather than an opportunity for upskilling. The introduction of any new technology brings fear to many, prompting us to acknowledge the ethical implications of such technology and strive to mitigate potential negative consequences. It also compels us to recognize the possibility of job displacement and motivates us to seek opportunities for upskilling. It is essential for individuals to embrace this fear as a catalyst for change. By doing so, we can proactively address potential pitfalls, alter our approach to work, and advocate for personal and professional opportunities.

Not a single dismissal has occurred due to the implementation of our technology. Our approach involves identifying interested parties, persuading those who are hesitant, and ultimately empowering sales representatives to successfully close deals. 

Q: What specific skills should individuals focus on acquiring as they pursue upskilling opportunities in response to technological advances?

A: One essential skill is mastering the use of AI. It is akin to the transition that occurred when computers became ubiquitous in workplaces. No leading business can afford to remain competitive without integrating AI into its operations. It is key to familiarize oneself with AI and delve deep into its functionalities for each specific area. This understanding will not only reveal its potential benefits but also highlight the nuances and precautions necessary to maintain authenticity and human touch.

A second recommendation is to identify and nurture skills that cannot be replaced by technology, such as strategic thinking, empathy, and analytical abilities that encompass a comprehensive understanding of various decision-making factors. It is crucial to recognize that while technology may enhance efficiency, certain aspects of human interaction and critical thinking cannot be replicated by AI. Honing these skills will not only safeguard one's relevance in the workforce but also contribute to long-term success in an increasingly digital world.

Q: What is the status of AI adoption in Mexico?

A: While over 90% of CEOs acknowledge AI as the next major advancement and express interest in investing in it, less than 2% of businesses have adopted AI technologies. This indicates that AI adoption is still in its early stages across various industries. It is crucial to approach this technology with caution and staying abreast of consumer needs in this rapidly evolving market is paramount. To achieve this, continuous supervision and monitoring are vital for businesses implementing AI, as it is necessary to ensure that they remain responsive to consumer feedback and adaptable to changing market dynamics. Tools like customer feedback surveys facilitate the swift detection and resolution of problems, while AI-enabled dashboards provide real-time insights for informed decision-making. 

Q: How would you compare AI adoption in Mexico versus other countries?

A: At a conference in California, I observed that companies from Mexico and the United States take similar technological approaches to AI. This similarity has empowered Mexican companies to compete effectively. Mexican programmers have the capabilities to rival their US counterparts. While we may not match the United States in terms of AI infrastructure investment, there are niche markets offering significant opportunities for innovation.

Q: What is the status of regulation regarding this technology in Mexico?

A: The European Union leads the way on policy, followed by the United States, with Mexico lagging behind. To address this, collaboration among government institutions, other regulatory bodies, and clients is necessary. This collaborative approach can drive meaningful change without solely relying on government intervention. Clients can shape regulatory landscapes by incorporating ethical considerations into their procurement processes. 

Q: How do you envision Xira evolving over the next five years?

A: Thanks to the collaborative efforts of our team, we are competing with some of the world's largest companies like Amazon and Microsoft, which are also implementing similar technologies. This demonstrates our ability to compete on a global scale. Our goal now is to expand not only within Mexico but also throughout Latin America and the United States. Partnerships will play a crucial role in achieving this expansion. We are seeking collaborations with tech companies both locally and abroad, as well as consulting firms that are increasingly focusing on implementing technology solutions. We have already secured deals with several consulting firms to further our reach in these markets.

Xira is a Mexican AI developer that focuses on eliminating repetitive and manual processes to improve customer experience and help companies make better decisions.