AI in eCommerce: What skills should you focus on?

AI in eCommerce continues to evolve. So, what does this mean for your team, the skills they need and the specific roles to fill? 

Artificial intelligence and machine learning now have the capabilities to have a positive impact on an eCommerce function. These technologies enable businesses to analyse large datasets, automate processes, and gain insights that can enhance decision-making and customer experiences.

So, we wanted to delve a little deeper into this topic. With a new year approaching, it's the perfect time to reflect on your current team and identify key gaps - be it certain skills or a role you have yet to introduce to the team.

What areas can AI and machine learning help your business?

The areas below are by no means new concepts within an eCommerce team. However, the evolution of AI, machine learning and analytics has allowed these functions to thrive. 

• Personalisation: AI algorithms can analyse customer behaviour, preferences, and purchase history to provide better recommendations. As a result, the overall shopping experience improves, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Chatbots and virtual assistants: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can provide instant customer support, answer queries, and guide customers through the shopping process. This opens up new opportunities for the workforce, who can be trained to take in new responsibilities.
• Predictive Analytics: Machine learning algorithms can predict trends and customer behaviours based on historical data. This is valuable for inventory management, demand forecasting, and strategic decision-making.
• Fraud Detection and Security: AI is crucial in identifying patterns that may indicate fraudulent activities. Machine learning algorithms can enhance the security of eCommerce platforms by detecting and preventing fraudulent transactions. Customers want to feel protected, so this is a promising development as cyber security rises even more.
• Supply Chain Optimisation: Machine learning can be applied to optimise supply chain processes, from inventory management to logistics. This ensures timely deliveries, reduces costs and improves overall operational efficiency.

What skills are required to bring AI success to your eCommerce team?

Technology like this will never stay the same for long. New developments and trends are sure to be just around the corner. New skill requirements will happen, as it does with any industry. However, here are the general skills required for your team if AI is a priority.

• Programming skills: Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in AI/ML, such as Python, is crucial. Familiarity with relevant libraries and frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) is also beneficial.
• Understanding of AI concepts: A foundational understanding of how AI and machine learning work is essential. This includes knowledge of algorithms, model training, and evaluation.
• Data Analysis Skills: The ability to work with large datasets, clean and process data, and derive meaningful insights is essential. Understanding the data allows the team to further improve AI functions and customer experience.
• Business Development: Understanding how AI and machine learning applications align with business goals and strategies is key. Professionals should be able to translate technical insights into actionable business decisions.
• Adaptability: Given the rapid evolution of technology, professionals must be adaptable and willing to stay updated on the latest advancements in the field.

The key job roles for AI and machine learning 

As an eCommerce recruitment agency, we are of course intrigued by the future roles AI will introduce. Here are just a few that we expect to further require AI knowledge and skills...

• AI/Machine Learning Engineers
• Data Scientists
• AI Product Managers
• Chatbot Developers
• eCommerce Analysts

How can we help you?

Whether you're looking to hire new team members or looking for your next opportunity, we're here to help!

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