6Cs Trend 3: Harnessing AI Context Windows for Communication and Collaboration

By Kevin Shepherdson, Founder & CEO, Straits Interactive

In 2025, advancements in AI context window capabilities are poised to redefine how organisations collaborate and communicate. "Context Window" - the third trend in the ‘6Cs’ framework for 2025, highlights how AI systems with expanded memory and the ability to process multimodal inputs can enhance workplace interactions. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), leveraging these advancements can streamline operations, reduce miscommunication, and create seamless collaboration opportunities. However, these benefits also come with challenges that require strategic management.

This article explores the concept of context windows, key trends, real-world examples, challenges, and actionable recommendations to help SMEs harness this transformative AI capability effectively.

Understanding Context Windows

A context window refers to the amount of information an AI system can retain and process during an interaction. For instance:

1. In traditional AI, the context window is limited to a specific query or session. Once the interaction ends, the AI "forgets" previous inputs.

2. Advanced AI models like ChatGPT have progressively larger context windows, allowing them to reference prior parts of a conversation and provide coherent, context-aware responses.

Relevance to ChatGPT and Chatbots

Chatbots equipped with large context windows:

1. Remember past interactions, reducing the need for users to repeat information.

2. Provide continuity in multi-session conversations, improving user experience.

3. Enable businesses to handle complex queries or projects over time without losing context.

Example: A customer service chatbot for an SME in e-commerce can recall a user’s prior interactions about product inquiries and shipping details, enabling faster resolution during follow-ups.

Key Developments in 2024

1. Google’s Gemini Models

Google’s Gemini models introduced million-token context windows, enabling AI to process vast amounts of data in a single session. These models also integrated multimodal processing, combining text, images, and other data types for comprehensive understanding.

Example: An architectural firm used Gemini to review blueprints, contracts, and client feedback simultaneously, allowing the AI to assist in creating detailed project proposals efficiently.

2025 Trends in Context Windows

1. Multi-Session / Infinite Memory

AI systems are advancing toward retaining context across multiple interactions, effectively achieving "infinite memory." This allows:

1. Continuity in Projects: AI can track project developments over time.

2. Improved User Experience: Users can engage with AI over several sessions without re-establishing context.

Scenario: A marketing SME uses an AI assistant to manage a campaign. The AI remembers discussions from earlier sessions, such as preferred ad formats or audience segmentation, streamlining the decision-making process.

2. Knowledge Integration

AI will combine multimodal inputs—text, images, spreadsheets, and more—to provide comprehensive support for projects and tasks.

Scenario: A retail SME leverages AI to integrate sales data, social media feedback, and product visuals. The AI suggests targeted marketing strategies based on this combined input.

3. Personalised Assistance

Context-aware virtual assistants will provide tailored solutions by understanding individual user preferences and organisational needs.

Scenario: A training provider SME uses an AI-powered virtual assistant to manage learning programmes. The AI tracks learner progress, remembers individual preferences (e.g. preferred learning styles or topics of interest), and delivers personalised recommendations for future modules. This enhances learner engagement and reduces administrative overhead for trainers.

Implications for Organisations

1. Streamlined Communication

AI systems summarise conversations, ensuring that teams across departments stay aligned and reducing the risk of miscommunication.

Example: A legal consultancy uses AI to summarise client meetings and provide key action points, saving time for attorneys and clients.

2. Productivity Gains

AI efficiently refines complex documents and manages project histories, enabling faster outputs with greater accuracy.

Example: An SME in publishing uses AI to edit and proofread manuscripts while referencing prior editorial notes for consistency.

3. Seamless Collaboration

AI systems maintain continuity across team transitions, ensuring projects remain on track despite personnel changes.

Example: A project management AI for a tech startup ensures that when team members join mid-project, they can quickly access past decisions and documentation without needing lengthy onboarding.

Challenges SMEs Face

1. Data Privacy Risks

Larger context windows may inadvertently include sensitive or proprietary information in AI outputs.

2. Cost of Advanced AI

Implementing AI systems with expanded memory and multimodal capabilities can strain SME budgets.

3. Training and Adaptation

Employees may need training to maximise the benefits of context-aware AI tools.

Actionable Recommendations for SMEs

1. Start Small with SaaS AI Tools

1. Use cloud-based AI platforms with pre-configured context capabilities to minimise costs and technical requirements.

Tip: Begin with specific use cases like customer service chatbots or internal knowledge management.

2. Implement Privacy Safeguards

1. Use anonymisation techniques to protect sensitive data in AI interactions.

2. Regularly audit AI outputs to ensure compliance with data protection regulations.

Tip: Partner with vendors who offer robust privacy features and comply with standards like GDPR.

3. Train Employees

1. Provide workshops on how to use AI tools effectively, focusing on context-related capabilities.

2. Foster a culture of collaboration between employees and AI systems to maximise productivity.

Tip: Emphasise the role of AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human judgment.

4. Integrate AI into Existing Workflows

1. Select AI systems that integrate seamlessly with current tools like CRM or project management software.

2. Monitor performance to refine AI usage and address gaps.

Tip: Use pilot projects to test AI integration before scaling up.

Real-World Example

Streamlining Collaboration with Multi-Session AI

A consulting SME deployed an AI-powered assistant to manage multi-session client engagements. The AI retained context across meetings, summarising past discussions and providing actionable insights for subsequent sessions. This reduced meeting preparation time by 30%, improving client satisfaction and team efficiency.

Unlocking the Power of Context Windows for SMEs

In 2025, advancements in context windows offer SMEs a transformative opportunity to enhance collaboration, streamline communication, and boost productivity. By understanding and leveraging these capabilities, organisations can ensure seamless workflows and maintain a competitive edge.

Key Takeaways for SMEs:

1. Use context-aware AI tools to manage ongoing projects and reduce miscommunication.

2. Prioritise privacy safeguards to protect sensitive data in AI interactions.

3. Train employees to adapt to and collaborate with AI systems effectively.

By integrating context-aware AI into their operations, SMEs can unlock new levels of efficiency and innovation, ensuring long-term success in an AI-driven workplace.

This article is part 3 of a 6-part series Generative AI in the Workplace: 6 Trends Every Organisation Should Take Note of in 2025.