Key Takeaways
- AI in business intelligence empowers Chattanooga businesses to move from reporting to prediction.
- Starting small with AI pilot projects often yields quicker buy-in and faster ROI-but only if your data foundation is clean and structured enough to support meaningful results.
- The right AI approach enhances human expertise and deepens client trust.
- Real-world examples show tangible benefits in efficiency, compliance, and forecasting.
- With AI Flow workshops, businesses can define strategic AI use cases quickly and responsibly.
How Is AI Used in Business Intelligence?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming how businesses in Chattanooga leverage their data. When combined with business intelligence (BI) tools, AI helps shift decision-making from reactive to proactive. Instead of just reporting on what happened last quarter, companies can now spot trends and respond in real time, with more confidence and clarity.
Data Processing Automation
AI streamlines routine data tasks, freeing teams from time-consuming manual work. Tools like Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT embedded in BI platforms can streamline parts of reporting, large-dataset reconciliation, and insight generation. This emerging automation often improves operational efficiency and helps reduce human error, with capabilities expected to strengthen over time.
Natural Language Processing (NLP) in BI
Natural language processing (NLP) in business intelligence helps executives ask questions using everyday language. Instead of relying on technical teams, decision-makers can ask complex questions like “What drove our Q3 revenue increase?” and get meaningful, visual responses. For Chattanooga leaders who need to make quick calls, this turns BI from a specialist tool into an everyday asset.
Data Analytics
AI enhances analytics by identifying hidden patterns, flagging anomalies, and delivering predictive insights. Chattanooga’s manufacturers, for example, can forecast supply chain risks or maintenance needs before they disrupt operations. Predictive modeling helps companies optimize operations and allocate resources with precision.
The Age of Agentic AI
Businesses are entering a phase where AI agents autonomously perform multi-step tasks. This is not theoretical — it’s innovation that is already driving results. AI systems are evolving from isolated tools to intelligent workflows capable of transforming how businesses function across departments.
Top Benefits of Incorporating AI into BI
Strategic Decision-Making and Competitive Advantages
AI isn’t just about data and crunching numbers; it helps leaders make smarter decisions, faster. Businesses embracing AI can make faster, smarter decisions backed by real-time data.
Machine learning models enable leaders to identify patterns and trends that humans might overlook.
Digital Transformation
Digital transformation goes beyond adopting new tools. It challenges companies to rethink how they operate. AI supports that shift by turning guesswork into data-backed decisions and helping teams create stronger, more flexible strategies.
Making Use of Disparate Data Sources
AI integrates data from systems like CRM, ERP, and HR, enabling enterprise-wide insights. By bringing together structured and unstructured data, AI helps companies build a complete picture of operations.
Increased Efficiency
From contract reviews to SQL optimization, AI automates complex tasks, allowing teams to focus on high-impact strategy. Predictive analytics ensures resources are allocated efficiently, improving speed and decision-making across the board — and use cases like lease management and credit card fraud identification continue to expand its value.
Greater Profitability
Efficiency leads to profitability. AI-powered BI helps businesses reduce waste, identify high-value opportunities, and allocate resources effectively. Chattanooga companies using AI and business intelligence are unlocking new revenue channels and refining existing ones.
“The right approach begins with clarity — knowing your pain points, what data you have, and where AI can truly create value. Most firms start in the wrong place. They jump to tools before understanding their challenges.” — Jon Hilton, Shareholder and Practice Leader, LBMC AI & Data Insights (Source: Inside Public Accounting)
Cost Reductions
AI reduces the need for expensive manual processes and helps avoid costly errors. Automating data workflows with AI-enhanced capabilities built into platforms such as Power BI allows for smarter budgeting and leaner operations.
Better Risk Management
AI identifies financial anomalies, cybersecurity threats, and compliance gaps faster than traditional methods. When developed correctly, AI models can deliver real-time alerts and continuous monitoring — but with many tools overstating their capabilities, it’s essential to partner with a vendor that brings proven expertise and a strong track record. In some cases, the most effective solution may even be a tailored, custom build to suit your environment.
Making Your Entire Enterprise More Intelligent
AI elevates the entire organization. From marketing to operations, every function becomes more data-driven and responsive. Generative AI and predictive analytics can even improve customer experiences and internal alignment.
Transform Your Business with Modern Data Technologies
“Our compliance workload was overwhelming with multiple locations. LBMC introduced AI that actually understood our processes. It’s taken so much of the manual burden off our team, and the insights it surfaces help us stay ahead of compliance concerns.” — LBMC client in the healthcare industry.
Key Considerations When Incorporating AI into Business Intelligence
Start with a Business Problem, Not a Tool
Most firms start in the wrong place. They jump to tools before understanding their challenges. AI is most effective when tailored to your unique objectives.
Build a Strong Data Foundation
Clean, structured, and accessible data is essential. Businesses should consider how AI systems can connect structured and unstructured data across platforms.
Prioritize Governance
LBMC recommends strong internal policies that balance innovation with risk, ensuring compliance and ethical data practices.
Train Your Team
Combine AI insights with human judgment. Training employees on how to use AI for business intelligence encourages adoption and maximizes ROI.
AI Should Make Your Business More Human, Not Less
At LBMC, we believe technology should amplify relationships, not replace them. The most effective AI strategies start with people — not platforms. Whether you’re in manufacturing, healthcare, or tech, the goal is smarter decisions that stay grounded in real client needs.
“Every AI workflow begins with our people — subject-matter experts, front-line consultants, and client-facing teams who understand the nuance behind the problem. Tools like ChatGPT and QuillBot help enhance clarity and scale ensuring human-centric approach after the expert establishes intent, accuracy, and context.” — Suzanne Reed, Chief Marketing Officer, LBMC
We design human-centric loops:
- Expert input → AI acceleration → Human refinement → Final approval
This protects accuracy, ethics, and brand trust — and ultimately leads to better client results.
How Is AI Shaping the Future of Business Intelligence?
The future is predictive, personalized, and proactive. With AI:
- Leaders spend less time compiling data and more time acting on it.
- Chattanooga companies can compete nationally with smarter strategies.
- Decision-making becomes decentralized, agile, and insight-driven.
- Predictive modeling will continue to replace guesswork with clarity and control.
What Does This Mean for Businesses in Chattanooga?
AI levels the playing field. You don’t need a tech giant’s budget to benefit. Whether you’re in healthcare, logistics, or manufacturing, there’s an AI-powered path to growth. Chattanooga companies that adopt AI solutions now will be well-positioned for long-term success.
“Chattanooga’s growth in advanced manufacturing, logistics, and tech-enabled services means AI integration is no longer optional. Our internal philosophy — ‘AI should make us more human, not less’ — resonates in a city built on relationships. The most successful companies will use AI to deepen connections, not replace them.” — Mark Brumbelow, Business Tax Leader and Shareholder, LBMC
How to Assess AI + BI Opportunities for Your Own Chattanooga Business
LBMC’s proprietary AI Flow workshops help business leaders identify where AI can deliver real ROI. These 4- to 8-hour sessions align AI with your strategy and build a roadmap you can implement within weeks. It’s the fastest way to uncover value and start seeing results from AI in business intelligence.
Content provided by Justin Conant. Justin is a Senior Manager in LBMC’s AI Practice and is located in our Knoxville office.