Artificial Intelligence – Tech alone won’t do it!

AI - Two letters that in a short period of time has created a multitude of definitions and parallel understandings, I listen to many discussions quickly become confused and usually expand to robotics, machine learning and data analysis all badged under AI. Such uncertainty makes it difficult for companies to say if they are truly AI enabled or are paying lip service to the hype.

Companies who say they use AI when pushed about the where and how sometimes become less confident and in most cases a problem has been ‘fixed’ with a tech solution without realising the wider AI opportunity. Rushing to adopt the technology misses the value of up front analysis –

· Truly understanding the problem and the stakeholders

· The data that is already available and can be manipulated to create value

· Finding the right technology to assist and validate its capabilities

· Shape the operating model, who will be affected and how they will benefit

· Understand the long term potential and pathway to continuous improvement

· Create a robust solution concept and share for challenge and refinement

Too many times a great looking tech solution is found, a problem is identified to solve, implemented and leadership enthusiastically announce 'We are now doing AI'......bonuses in the bag! - Often over a short time adoption becomes limited as it falls short on strategic aims and stakeholders are left with increased on-going cost.

Spending time up front considering the human aspects of change for staff, customers and partners will greatly improve chances of success and adoption. The AI technology in some ways is the easiest part, there is no shortage of suppliers and consultants, but making it relevant to the audience and promoting the pathway to benefits gives much greater chances of realising the potential for long-term business improvement through AI.