What is an AI Meeting Assistant?

An AI meeting assistant is a software tool that helps streamline pre- and post-meeting processes by using artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP). How does it simplify meetings? Instead of a designated minute-taker manually taking notes, assigning tasks, or tracking schedules, the AI assistant automates these routine activities, so participants can solely focus on the meeting discussion.

Key Features of an AI Meeting Assistant

While features may vary across different platforms, common capabilities of AI meeting assistants include:

• Automated transcription: These are accurate, real-time transcriptions of conversations, which can be downloaded and edited if needed after the meeting for future reference.
• Meeting summaries: Automated and concise meeting recaps highlighting action items and decisions that arise from the meeting, and the immediate next steps.
• Scheduling support: Assists with setting up meetings, sending reminders, and resolving calendar conflicts.
• Multi-language support: Some assistants can even have advanced tools for understanding and transcribing in multiple languages, making them useful for global teams.
• Integration with business tools: Many connect with popular platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Slack, or board portals for seamless workflow.

What are the benefits of using AI meeting assistants?

There have been various areas of business operations in which AI has proven to be highly beneficial, and it only makes sense to also leverage its capabilities during meetings. Below are five benefits of using an AI meeting assistant:

1. Time savings: Manual note-taking and follow-up work after meetings can take hours, or sometimes even days. An AI meeting assistant shortens this process by instantly generating meeting minutes and task lists.
2. Improved productivity: With an automated assistant documenting key points, participants can give their full attention to the conversation. This reduces distractions and leads to more productive discussions. For high-level discussions, an assistant ensures nothing gets overlooked or misunderstood. Some board portals, such as Convene, have introduced AI meeting assistant integrations to make board processes more efficient.
3. Consistency and accuracy: Unlike human note-takers who may inevitably miss details, AI tools provide consistent documentation. They capture conversations verbatim, making it easier to revisit exact wording or clarify decisions.
4. Better collaboration: Meeting assistants help teams stay aligned by sharing transcripts, summaries, and tasks across collaboration platforms. This ensures that even absentees can stay informed. For distributed teams, meeting assistants ensure all discussions are documented and accessible to everyone, no matter their location.
5. Reduced administrative burden: By automating scheduling, reminders, and follow-ups, these tools cut down on repetitive work for executives and support staff.