Artificial intelligence is changing the way businesses work, and not just in big tech companies.
Small and medium sized businesses can now tap into powerful tools once only available to large corporations. One of the most exciting tools are things called a “language model.”
You’ve probably seen this in tools like ChatGPT. But what many people don’t realise is that you don’t always need a massive AI model to get great results. In fact, for many smaller or more specific tasks, a small language model can be a better, faster, and cheaper option.
Here’s a simple example. Imagine you run a business that works on accessible housing modifications. A client calls and says they need a wheelchair ramp added to their home. The front step is 120mm high, and they want to know how long the ramp needs to be to meet the proper standards. Now, if you were to ask a large language model, it would probably give you information pulled from all over the world—American codes, UK regulations, and maybe even commercial design guides that don’t really apply to your situation. That can be confusing and time-consuming and following a code or standards from other countries may mean you build something non-compliant in your region.
But if you had a small language model trained specifically on Australian standards, building codes, and disability access guidelines, it could give you the right answer instantly. It would know that, under Australian guidelines, a safe ramp for a wheelchair user should have a maximum gradient of 1:14. So for a 120mm step, the ramp would need to be at least 1.68 metres long. Simple, fast, and accurate. With the click of a button you can also see where the model sourced the information from. And it is not limited to technical guides or standards. It can work with your companies policies and procedures or load all your products and services so your staff or clients can find the best solutions your business can provide.
That’s the power of a small language model. It’s focused, efficient, and tailored to your business needs, and it can help you, your team, or your customers access the right information without having to search through manuals, regulations, or websites.
The best part is, these small language models are cheap, easy and accessible to you right now.
Imagine a tool that will be answering many of the questions you get asked on a daily basis, helps staff learn new procedures, or just making faster decisions, a small language model is be like having an extra team member who knows the details and never gets tired.
You don’t need to be a tech expert to use one. You just need to know what kinds of problems it can help solve—and there are plenty. If you’re in a niche industry, if you deal with complex information, or if you just want to save time and reduce errors, a small language model might be one of the most useful tools you add to your business this year. And the best part is, it works the way you do, focused, practical, and ready to get on with the job.
If this sounds like something that could help your business, you might be eligible for a free business advice session to explore how tools like small language models could work for you. In some cases, there’s even funding available that can be used to help you test or implement AI solutions in your business. It’s a great opportunity to get expert support and see what’s possible—without the pressure or cost of going it alone. Reach out today and let’s explore how these tools can make a real difference in the way you work.