There is a tremendous buzz in the universe around the benefits of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and tools to enhance the productivity and efficiency of workers at every level in the workplace. Promoters of AI technology suggest there are many benefits to adopting and using this technology in organizations of any size, impacting various aspects of operations and strategies. But, the question is “does a business really need AI?”

Before attempting to answer this question, lets take a look at some key factors every business leadership team should consider to influence AI adoption and utilization decisions for their respective organization and workplace environment.

1. How knowledgable are leaders in the company about AI technology in general?
2. What functional areas of the business will AI have the greatest impact?
3. Where should we consider deploying AI technology resources first?
4. What employees/staff members have the right skillsets needed to adopt, deploy and manage AI assets within a workgroup or across the organization?
5. How much training does our workforce need to effectively use AI technology?
6. How does AI converge with other areas of our technology stack (IT, Telecommunications, Cybersecurity, Networks, etc.)
7. Are we prepared to make an investment in AI training, tools and support resources?

The questions above are just a preliminary list of some of the factors that should influence AI adoption and use decisions made by senior leadership. The goal of this blog is to begin a discussion about these different points to help decision makers think through critical factors that will help them intelligently determine if in fact their business really does need AI?