Unexpected Ways AI Can Help People Navigate Complex Decisions

InnovationUnexpected Ways AI Can Help People Navigate Complex DecisionsByExpert Panel®,Forbes Councils Member.for Forbes Technology CouncilCOUNCIL POSTExpertise from Forbes Councils members, operated under license. Opinions expressed are those of the author. | Membership (fee-based)May 27, 2026, 08:15am EDT gettyAI is already helping organizations automate routine tasks, analyze data and improve customer experiences. People are also using AI for daily tasks like drafting emails, comparing products, planning trips and accessing quick summaries of unfamiliar topics. But AI’s next wave of value may come from a more human-centered role: helping people make sense of complex decisions and processes when guidance is hard to find, too expensive or stretched thin.From applications that require dense paperwork to decisions involving health, finances, benefits or career paths, many people don’t need AI to choose for them—they need help understanding their options and next steps. Below, members of Forbes Technology Council share unexpected ways AI can make difficult processes easier to navigate and explain why these use cases can have such a meaningful impact. Simplifying Employee Benefits DecisionsAI can serve as a personalized benefits navigator for employees, helping them understand complex healthcare, retirement and wellness options during enrollment. HR teams are often stretched thin, and these decisions deeply impact financial well-being. AI can bridge that gap by translating jargon into actionable, individualized guidance. - Matthew Peters, CAIImproving Healthcare NavigationHealthcare navigation systems use AI for real-time patient support regarding complex situations. These systems help patients choose treatment options and insurance plans while providing context-based guidance for their upcoming steps. AI creates value through its ability to minimize confusion while enhancing outcomes and delivering personalized guidance to users who lack access to expert support. - Ja...