Finding the value in AI: Start with the problem, not the tool
One of the most frequent and valid questions raised by executive teams is: “What is the return on investment from AI?” It's a question that cuts through the hype and demands a more grounded conversation. Despite rolling out AI inititaitves, many organisations remain unclear on what value they are actually pursuing, or whether their current efforts are strategically aligned.
Too often, AI initiatives start with the tool, and respond to these sorts of questions:
“Let’s use generative AI to improve productivity.”
“Can we apply machine learning to our data sets?”
“We need a chatbot—everyone else has one.”
These approaches may lead to activity, but are unlikely to deliver lasting value unless they are anchored in purpose.
We need a different question. The more effective starting point is this:
What is the problem we are trying to solve?
That single question creates clarity, focus, and direction. Importantly, it shifts the conversation from technology exploration to business impact.
AI360 Review helps you get a clear line from AI investments to business outcomes.
AI value is found at the intersection of three factors
From our work and research, we've found that successful, high-return AI efforts tend to sit at the intersection of:
1. Strategic Alignment
The AI initiative is clearly tied to a business priority—whether that's improving customer experience, reducing operational inefficiencies, or enhancing decision-making.
2. Problem Clarity
The issue being addressed is specific, well-understood, and measurable. Vague goals like “innovation” or “automation” need to be translated into tangible use cases.
3. Organisational Readiness
The people, processes, and systems are in place to support adoption. Even the best-designed AI solutions will struggle without the capability and culture to embed them.
Get a clear line to value
Leaders don’t need to become AI experts. But they do need a clear line of sight between AI investments and business outcomes.
Here are the questions to ask:
What inefficiencies, risks, or opportunities exist in our current processes?
Where are decisions being made slowly, inconsistently, or without the benefit of data?
What would a better outcome look like - and how would we measure it?
AI may be the right tool. But it is only one part of the solution.
Understand where you are
Rather than jumping into pilots or technology trials, the most powerful first step is often a strategic conversation. An AI capability review can help surface the gaps, align key stakeholders, and identify where your investment will yield the greatest return.
At AI360 Review, we work with leadership teams to:
Understand their current stage of AI readiness
Identify people, process, and system blockers
Clarify where AI efforts are likely to gain traction—and where they may stall
Ready for a conversation?
If your organisation is thinking seriously about the role of AI, we’d be happy to connect for a short, no-obligation discussion. Often, a single conversation can help illuminate the next best step.
To learn more or book a time, send us a note here or reach out directly to sonia@ai360review.com.