AI isn’t just for tech giants or Silicon Valley startups anymore. According to Sean McCrohan, CallRail’s Vice President of Technology, small businesses may actually be in the best position to harness AI's immediate benefits. In a recent conversation with Demand Marketing Manager Simone Reid, Sean shared his perspective on where AI is headed, how small businesses can make the most of it, and what CallRail is doing to help customers stay ahead.
Why AI matters for small businesses
Small businesses often operate with limited resources, making time a precious commodity. AI streamlines operations by automating repetitive tasks, allowing businesses to reclaim valuable hours to focus on high-impact areas that drive immediate growth and value.
AI insight: AI-powered automation can increase productivity by up to 40%, giving small businesses a significant competitive edge (Orion Policy Institute).
How SMBs can leverage AI in 2025 and beyond
By automating routine and repetitive processes, businesses can streamline their operations, reduce errors, and save valuable time. This allows their teams to focus on higher-value tasks that require human creativity, critical thinking, and decision-making, ultimately driving innovation and improving overall productivity.
AI insight: Approximately 41% of small businesses have used AI to redirect their own time and employee time to higher-value work (Forbes).
Key learnings from nearly a decade of AI at CallRail
AI has evolved from being predictably mediocre to intermittently brilliant in key areas. Applying AI effectively isn’t just technical; it’s an imaginative problem-solving process that requires human creativity. Success with AI often depends on how well humans can identify meaningful applications, create innovative solutions, and guide the technology to address challenges.
What’s next for AI?
Generative AI is expanding beyond text generation to include images, voice, video, and even actions through agentic frameworks. AI will become more integrated into everyday products, making its use invisible and assumed by users.
AI insight: In a survey by The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Teneo, 98% of small businesses are using AI-enabled tools, with 40% utilizing generative AI tools like chatbots and image creation.
How CallRail helps businesses stay ahead
CallRail focuses on giving customers more time to do what they’re uniquely good at by automating processes like phone systems. We’re especially excited about interactive voice AI, making this technology accessible to customers so they can focus on growing their business.
