The Essential Human Element: Why AI Falls Short in Crafting Professional Business Plans

During a recent presentation to a group of entrepreneurs new to Canada, I was asked if AI could craft a professional business plan. My immediate response was a decisive "no." Naturally, I was asked to explain why.

"AI falls short in crafting professional business plans because it lacks the nuanced understanding and strategic insight that human experts bring to the table," I said. "While AI can generate content quickly, it cannot fully grasp the intricacies of a business's unique goals, industry dynamics, and market conditions."

Professional business plan writers draw on their experience, intuition, and creativity to tailor plans that resonate with investors and stakeholders, aligning with the specific vision and aspirations of the business. They engage in meaningful conversations with clients to refine and adapt strategies, ensuring the plan is not only comprehensive but also realistic and compelling. This human touch, characterized by empathy and contextual understanding, is something AI has yet to mimic.

“HI (Human Intelligence) reflects the essence of what it means to be human. Our intrinsic qualities of creativity, empathy, and adaptability are not just features of our intelligence; they are the core elements that define us. In the HI construct, these human elements take precedence, guiding and informing the application of AI.” – John Nosta, NostaLab

AI can be a valuable resource by saving time and providing insights into market trends, and customer demographics. It can assist in creating financial projections crucial for convincing investors and securing funds. AI tools also help draft and format sections of a business plan ensuring consistency and professionalism, and suggest marketing strategies based on data analysis.

However, AI cannot make strategic decisions aligned with the entrepreneur's values, experiences, and intuition. For instance, a professional business plan writer understands an entrepreneur’s dedication to sustainability and will recommend suppliers based on ethical considerations, such as supporting local farmers or using environmentally friendly materials, which AI might not prioritize. Additionally, AI might not recognize the importance of selecting business strategies that support neighbourhood communities or align with the entrepreneur's commitment to social responsibility.

A professional business plan writer with years of industry experience might have insights into customer behaviour and market trends that AI lacks, such as knowing the peak seasons for product demand based on historical patterns. They also make decisions based on long-standing relationships with clients, partners, or suppliers, which AI cannot fully grasp or mirror.

Experienced business plan writers might sense a market opportunity or potential risk based on their intuition and past experiences, again something AI cannot replicate. An expert writer can quickly pivot or adapt strategies in response to unexpected changes or feedback, relying on instinct and immediate judgment rather than data analysis alone. AI cannot provide customized legal or regulatory advice specific to the business's jurisdiction, a critical aspect where legal experts should be consulted.

Human values, experiences, and intuition play crucial roles in strategic decision-making, areas where AI currently falls short. AI cannot fully understand or convey the emotional and cultural context behind business decisions, which is especially important in businesses relying on personal connections and cultural nuances. Crafting content that requires understanding personal relationships and networking nuances is beyond AI’s capability. Building strong relationships with stakeholders, partners, and customers requires a human touch.

"Business plans are not just about data; they are about dreams and aspirations that only humans can truly capture."   - Unknown

While AI can assist with generating ideas and enhancing efficiency, especially for entrepreneurs new to Canada, true creativity and innovative thinking often require a human touch. Expert business plan writers, in collaboration with their clients, bring a level of creativity and innovation that AI cannot emulate.

In today’s technical and digital environment, a successful business plan requires a balance between AI-driven data and analysis and the unique vision and creativity of the business plan writer. By leveraging the strengths of both AI and human expertise, business plan writers can create robust, compelling, and bespoke business plans that drive their clients’ ventures toward success.

About The Author

Ioannis John Anagnostou is the owner of businessMD.

businessMD is an expert small business solutions firm offering tailored business coaching and advisory, high-spec and bespoke business plans, and effective solutions to meet the current needs and future goals of micropreneurs and small business operators in Canada. By doing so, we increase the likelihood of achieving success and financial well-being for their business. Let’s Talk!