Empowering SMEs Through AI: A Hands-On Workshop by Dooox & Tokyo Chamber of Commerce

In an era where digital transformation is crucial for the survival of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Dooox, a company dedicated to supporting businesses in overcoming significant challenges, recently participated as an instructor in a workshop focused on the utilization of generative AI. This initiative, hosted by the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce, took place in Chiyoda, Tokyo, aiming to equip business owners with essential skills applicable to their operations.

Importance of the Workshop

The reduction of the workforce and the necessity for efficiency within SMEs has elevated the need for digital transformation (DX). Tools like generative AI, particularly ChatGPT, are recognized for their potential to enhance productivity. However, many companies face barriers such as a vague understanding of practical applications and a lack of technical expertise. Recognizing these challenges, the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce collaborated with Dooox to conduct a workshop that not only educated participants about the fundamentals of AI but also facilitated hands-on experience in creating automation tools that they could implement immediately.

Workshop Highlights

Overcoming the Barrier of Doubt

The workshop commenced with a lecture addressing a common conundrum faced by many business professionals: the understanding of AI's capabilities versus the complexities of real-world application.

Participants were encouraged to dissect and visualize their daily processes, exposing the pitfalls of AI utilization that many fall into. The session aimed to challenge the conventional approach of ‘interacting with AI’ and instead proposed a new method of partnering with AI to achieve business automation.

Practical Automation with AI and GAS

The hands-on segment introduced participants to Google Apps Script (GAS), combined with generative AI. Typically regarded as a domain reserved for those with technical coding skills, the workshop transformed this perception by clearly defining roles. Participants articulated their needs, and AI generated the necessary code. They successfully developed practical applications for automating tasks such as email sending and data aggregation, gaining confidence in their ability to leverage AI in their workflows.

Participant Feedback

Feedback collected from participants indicated a strong appreciation for the practical emphasis of the workshop. One participant noted, "I had heard of GAS but thought it was beyond my reach due to my lack of programming knowledge. I was thrilled to discover that I could collaborate with AI to create tools!" Another shared, "Having attended several AI-related seminars, this was the first time I really engaged in a practical workshop of this depth and found it extremely beneficial." Many expressed optimism about how new programming knowledge could apply to their own business operations.

Future Initiatives

Dooox aims to build on this collaboration with the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce by strengthening partnerships with commerce chambers, local governments, and financial institutions nationwide. The focus will remain on nurturing talent capable of effectively utilizing AI, ultimately contributing to the productivity of SMEs across Japan.

About Tokyo Chamber of Commerce

Headquartered at Marunouchi 3-2-2, Chiyoda, Tokyo, the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce has been operational since March 1878. As a specially licensed corporation, it supports the growth of commerce and industry in the Tokyo area, offering various services aimed at invigorating local economies.

About Dooox

Dooox, established in June 2021 and located at 2F Gotanda JP Building, 8-4-13 Nishi-Gotanda, Shinagawa, Tokyo, operates under the philosophy of creating a world where individuals can passionately engage with their own stories. Through initiatives such as the Special Mission President's Office® and the Machimori Project, Dooox is dedicated to facilitating new challenges and empowering local communities.