Leveraging AI for Effective Decision-Making

This course provides a practical introduction to leveraging artificial intelligence for strategic decision-making tailored to the unique needs and constraints of small and medium-sized businesses. Participants will explore AI applications, learn to implement AI strategies, and understand the ethical considerations involved.

$2,000.00

This course is IMAP eligible — free to eligible Ohioans

Ohio IMAP Eligible Course

Ohio’s Individual Microcredential Assistance Program covers this course in full for eligible Ohioans. That includes tuition, materials, and your certification exam voucher where one applies. You won’t be charged for any part of it.

You likely qualify if you are a U.S. citizen, 18 or older, and currently living in Ohio. You can’t be an employee of the State of Ohio or of We Can Code IT.

Apply for IMAP funding — the application takes a few minutes, and there is no checkout step.

High school juniors and seniors may also qualify, though the State attaches a condition about whether the same credential is available through College Credit Plus. Email admissions@wecancodeit.org and we’ll work out whether it applies to you.

Businesses: this course is TechCred eligible

Ohio TechCred Eligible Course

Ohio employers can be reimbursed by the State for upskilling their teams through TechCred. TechCred reimburses the employer, not the individual, so it isn’t a checkout option — your business applies to the State directly, and we help you build the training plan that goes with the application.

The next application period is October 1–30, 2026.

Schedule a TechCred planning call or email admissions@wecancodeit.org.

Description

Audience: Entrepreneurs, business owners, managers, and decision-makers in small and medium-sized businesses seeking to integrate AI into their strategic planning processes

Goal: Equip participants with an understanding of AI tools and techniques to enhance strategic decision-making within SMBs

Prerequisites: Basic understanding of business operations and a foundational understanding of AI and/or large language models like ChatGPT.

This course provides a practical introduction to leveraging artificial intelligence for strategic decision-making tailored to the unique needs and constraints of small and medium-sized businesses. Participants will explore AI applications, learn to implement AI strategies, and understand the ethical considerations involved.

Artificial intelligence is transforming how organizations make strategic decisions by providing deeper insights and predictive capabilities. This course offers a hands-on approach to understanding AI’s role in strategic planning within SMBs. Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, participants will learn how to apply AI tools to enhance market analysis, operational efficiency, and competitive advantage, all while considering the resource constraints typical of SMBs.

Outline:

  1. Introduction to AI in Strategic Decision-Making for SMBs

    • Understanding AI and its relevance to strategic business decisions

    • Overview of AI technologies: machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics

    • Benefits and challenges of integrating AI into strategic planning within SMBs

  2. AI Applications in Strategic Planning for SMBs

    • Market Analysis and Forecasting:

      • Utilizing AI for market trend analysis and demand forecasting to inform strategic decisions

      • Identifying growth opportunities through data-driven insights

    • Customer Insights and Personalization:

      • Leveraging AI to understand customer preferences and behavior

      • Developing personalized marketing strategies to enhance customer engagement

    • Operational Efficiency:

      • Implementing AI-driven process automation to streamline operations and reduce costs

      • Optimizing resource allocation and scheduling through AI tools

  3. Implementing AI Strategies for Strategic Decision-Making in SMBs

    • Identifying strategic areas that can benefit from AI integration

    • Developing a roadmap for AI adoption aligned with business goals

    • Collaborating with AI solution providers and leveraging accessible AI tools

    • Evaluating AI outcomes and refining strategic planning processes

  4. Ethical Considerations and Best Practices

    • Addressing biases in AI-driven strategic decisions

    • Ensuring transparency and accountability in AI applications

    • Navigating data privacy and security concerns

    • Establishing ethical guidelines for AI use in strategic decision-making

Competencies and Skills:

  • Understanding of AI concepts and their application in strategic decision-making within SMBs

  • Ability to identify and implement AI strategies to enhance business decisions

  • Knowledge of ethical considerations in AI-driven strategic planning

  • Skills in collaborating with AI solution providers to develop practical AI applications

Syllabus

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