Google Launches Springboard, an AI-Powered Assistant for Enterprise Customers

Google Launches Springboard: An AI-Powered Assistant for Enterprise Productivity
Google has announced the release of Springboard, a new AI-powered digital assistant designed to enhance productivity for enterprise customers utilizing Google's suite of services. This innovative tool aims to streamline the often time-consuming process of information retrieval within the workplace.
Key Features and Functionality:
- Unified Search Interface: Springboard acts as a central search hub, leveraging artificial intelligence to efficiently locate information across various Google Workspace applications. This includes services such as Google Drive, Gmail, Calendar, Google Docs, and more.
- AI-Powered Efficiency: The assistant utilizes AI to quickly surface relevant data, addressing the significant challenge of information overload and the time employees spend searching for necessary documents and communications. Google estimates that the average knowledge worker spends the equivalent of one full day per week searching for and gathering information.
- Proactive Recommendations: Beyond its search capabilities, Springboard is designed to provide users with "useful and actionable information and recommendations" throughout their workday. This proactive approach aims to anticipate user needs and streamline workflows.
Revamped Google Sites:
In conjunction with the Springboard announcement, Google has also unveiled a significant redesign of Google Sites. This update focuses on improving user experience and collaboration:
- Intuitive Editing: The new Google Sites features a user-friendly drag-and-drop editing interface, making it easier for users to create and manage content.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Aligning with other Google Workspace applications like Google Docs and Google Sheets, the updated Sites includes real-time collaboration features, allowing teams to work together seamlessly.
- Responsive Design: A key improvement is the responsive design, ensuring that content created with Google Sites adapts automatically to fit any screen size, whether it's a smartphone, laptop, or a large desktop monitor.
Availability and Future Plans:
Google is making these new features accessible through early adopter programs. Existing Google Apps for Work customers are invited to participate and provide feedback on both Springboard and the new Google Sites. The company has indicated that it has "a lot more in store" for both services, suggesting further enhancements and feature rollouts are planned for the future.
These developments underscore Google's commitment to leveraging AI and improving its enterprise offerings to create a more connected, collaborative, and efficient work environment.
Original article available at: https://techcrunch.com/2016/06/14/google-launches-springboard-an-ai-powered-assistant-for-its-enterprise-customers/