AI 101: The Basics Explained

Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept — it’s already influencing how businesses of all sizes operate. Yet for many leaders and teams, AI still feels abstract, technical, and hard to apply in practice. That’s why we created our AI 101 Webinar, designed to explain AI in plain English and provide a framework for getting started.

What is AI, really?

AI is often used as a catch-all term, but at its core it refers to systems that can learn, adapt, and make predictions. Key areas include:

• Machine learning – algorithms that improve as they process more data.
  
• Deep learning – breakthroughs that enabled today’s large language models.
  
• Natural language processing (NLP) – powering tools like ChatGPT that can understand and generate text.
  
• Computer vision & robotics – interpreting images, video, and physical environments.
  

Different types of AI

AI isn’t one-size-fits-all. Current and emerging applications include:

• Assistive AI – everyday tools that help with writing, summarising, and repetitive tasks.
  
• Agentic AI – systems that can complete a defined task on your behalf.
  
• Orchestrated AI – multiple AI agents working together in a process.
  
• Autonomous AI – fully independent systems (still on the horizon).

Where AI is making an impact

From speeding up document reviews to optimising workflows, AI is already helping businesses save time and reduce costs. A simple way to measure impact is to compare the time and quality of human work against AI-assisted work. For example, drafting a blog post might take four days traditionally, but with AI support, the same outcome could be achieved in half a day.

Adopting AI safely

Introducing AI without guardrails can lead to risks around privacy, accuracy, and ethics. That’s why having a clear AI policy and training program is critical. At WorkingMouse, for example, our policy ensures that AI supports rather than replaces people, prioritises data privacy, and requires human review of outputs before delivery

Local AI and privacy

One area we showcased is Local AI — private AI environments that allow organisations to leverage the benefits of AI while keeping sensitive data secure and fully under their control

By the end of this guide (and the webinar), the goal is simple: help you cut through the hype and give you the tools to start experimenting with AI in your own organisation.

👉 Download the webinar slides here!

👉 Watch the full AI 101 Webinar recording below to dive deeper.