Dive Brief:
- Slack and ServiceNow have struck up a new partnership in order to create an app with machine-learning capability, Venture Beat reports. The partnership combines the technological expertise of both startups, says Venture Beat.
- Slack will launch an app this fall that provides ServiceNow with a Slack channel. In the spring, ServiceNow's new software will enable its customers to approve or deny Slack automated processes, using machine learning.
- Venture Beat says the process could eventually replace email as the main means of communicating in the workplace.
Dive Insight:
Will Slack replace email? Right now, it looks unlikely. Email is still the main form of formal online business communication. But instant messaging apps like Slack, HipChat and Skype are all increasing in popularity, especially as more of the workforce works remotely. A recent study found that 43% of employees used some form of instant messaging during work hours. Big names like Facebook have also attempted to step more clearly into the corporate social media space, seeing the market that is forming there.
The move also represents recent changes in the workplace tech and startup space, particularly around machine learning. Platforms are partnering to create new products and businesses can expect to see more of this as startups look for new ways to advance commerce through technology.
Machine learning also has appeared in HR tech, helping recruiters identify applicants' achievements and work experiences. Software also can detect discrimination in hiring and help recruiters recognize their own biases. With these and other innovations, it seems that machine learning in the workplace will only continue to grow.
