The business press teems with stories and case studies about how artificial intelligence (AI) transforms organizations, revolutionizes customer service, and improves operational efficiency.

Every day, it seems, brings announcements of new AI assistants, from the general AI built by the major players to niche software designed for specific uses or industries.

One related but critical topic receives much less attention: how to seamlessly integrate AI capabilities across the enterprise. When organizations plan for integration early in the process, the benefits of AI can be even greater.

Many organizations start by choosing an AI version or vendor and then consider how to integrate it into their operations. The better strategy is to plan the integration first.

Step 1: Decide Where to Use AI

Organizations have two general options for AI deployment.

Some use AI to streamline and improve back-office functions, such as procurement, scheduling, and data entry. AI delivers real gains in those areas, especially when used in repetitive, routine tasks. By doing so, skilled workers have more time for other tasks that aren’t as well-suited to AI.

Others deploy AI in front-end, customer-facing areas, such as virtual receptionists and help desk agents. AI can transform customer touchpoints and provide higher customer satisfaction, particularly when responding to routine queries. If a patient realizes at 10:00 p.m. that they might have an appointment the following morning or a banking customer is anxious about a check clearing, AI can answer that query 24/7.

In both cases, organizations should be aware of potential data privacy and security issues, especially in industries with compliance requirements. The right partner can help ensure that an organization’s usage of AI isn’t a “black box,” but a system that secures data, with robust QA processes. Additionally, organizations should incorporate bias audits and compliance tools that explain what the black box is actually doing and where the data comes from.

No matter how they plan to use AI, most organizations first conduct a deep dive into the many AI options. To maximize the enterprise benefits of AI, the best option is to treat AI as an enabling technology rather than a new category of software. And that calls for a different approach, especially for organizations that already use Mitel technology.

Step 2: Choose a Systems Expert Before an AI Provider

To get the most from AI, organizations should consult an expert to make it an integral part of operations, rather than an add-on with limited functionality. Organizations benefit when AI is used as a connective force, enhancing everything from revenue acquisition and operational efficiency to communications and collaboration.

Working with the right expert can both expand the ways AI can help an organization and make the installation and deployment process much easier.

There’s one more consideration before implementing AI: infrastructure.

Step 3: Make Sure the Foundation Supports the System

Just as a building depends on its foundation, AI is ultimately only as good as its infrastructure.

In an organization with unified communications, an architecture that can integrate AI across calling, messaging, and contact centers without compromising compliance or CX is critical. Beyond bandwidth, a well-designed AI system seamlessly integrates with an organization’s internal and customer-facing operations.

Initially, organizations used AI in pilot projects or to provide specific, narrow functions. The resulting compliance frameworks didn’t scale, and customer experiences varied depending on what customers were trying to accomplish.

AI that works enterprise-wide is completely different. Choosing a partner that can help weave AI into the infrastructure to enhance operational efficiencies, work/data flow, and internal/external communications transforms AI from a separate category of software into an enabling technology. In essence, enterprise-wide AI isn’t a “cool tool,” but a strategy to transform an organization.

How VOIP Networks Enhances AI Implementation

VOIP Networks has deep experience in both AI implementation and Mitel technology. As a Mitel Platinum Partner, VOIP Networks can integrate both Mitel and non-Mitel AI solutions with Mitel technology to help organizations transform their operations.

Mitel’s AI solutions are showcased in Mitel CX, which was recently named a 2025 Contact Center Technology Award winner by CUSTOMER Magazine. This AI-assisted customer service platform uses virtual agents to intelligently automate up to 90% of customer responses 24/7. For organizations evaluating CX solutions, VOIP Networks can deploy Mitel CX and other AI technologies for a seamless, AI-driven system.

For organizations that are exploring AI offerings, VOIP Networks has experience with many AI providers and can offer valuable insight into which solution will best meet the company’s unique needs.

By contacting VOIP Networks early in the process of choosing and implementing AI, organizations receive the benefits all VOIP Networks’ clients enjoy:

• Focus groups to identify the organization’s needs
• Full solutions planning
• Implementation schedules and strategies
• Staff training
• Remote programming as needed
• U.S.-based, white-glove support 24/7/365

For more information on realizing the full benefits of AI, please contact us at 800.494.0000 or sales@voipnetworks.com.