Transforming AI from Cost to Profit
Alright folks, we all know AI's the flashy tool everyone's jumping on like it's the latest tech bandwagon. But here’s the raw deal: most of these shiny AI investments ain't paying back a damn thing. Enter the AI Adoption Institute (AiAi)—a new player in Denver aiming to salvage this mess and make AI about actual returns.
Peering into the AI Conundrum
So, what's the fuss about this AiAi setup? They're rolling out something they call 'peer circles'. These are groups of 10 to 16 business leaders coming together in real-time to knock heads over AI strategies. We’re talking non-competing folks, bouncing ideas around like a great game of corporate ping-pong. HR, finance, operations—you name it, they got it covered.
Brett Schklar, the man at the helm of this ship, ain't mincing words either. He’s grilled nearly 2,000 CEOs on their AI exploits and found out nearly everyone’s got the tools but none are driving the ROI bus like they should. Companies are buying licenses like it's a shopping spree, then ditching the rearranging of how the work operates. Classic case of having the engine but forgetting the wheels.
"Profitable AI adoption is a leadership problem before it's a technology problem," asserts Schklar. "You see leaders who compare notes, measure outcomes, and cut loose what's dragging them down."
The AI Adoption Institute's Battle Plan
Beyond the peer circles, AiAi’s strategy packs some other serious ammo: original research and performance scorecards. They’ve launched a Return on AI (ROAI) scorecard to put some numbers behind those AI dreams of profits. Research projects are lined up until January 2027, with early findings coming out in the first quarter.
- Research themes: AI adoption across sectors, human resources impact, CEO perspectives, trust issues, and a gander at AI consultants.
- Virtual and in-person sessions across cities from New York City to San Diego.
If you're eyeing to get schooled on operational maturity, ROAI, or just how these circles work, Schklar and Dr. Rebecca Nusbaum are leading free webinars on Nov. 12 and Nov. 24. Get signed up, soak in the insights, and everyone bags a recording too.
Still a Long Road for AI ROI
The statistics from McKinsey and PwC are grim at best. You're talking about nine out of ten companies dallying with AI, but only 37% seeing any profit effect. That ain’t pretty, especially when just 6% make the cut as AI high performers.
In simpler terms, way too many companies are treading through a swamp with these investments. Over half of the CEOs surveyed haven’t dialed in any increased revenues or cost cuts. Whether AiAi can bridge this gap remains a work in progress—a key gamble for businesses itching for results.
A New Dawn or Just More AI Fanfare?
AiAi's got the right pitch: measure rigorously, peer evaluate, and kill what's not clicking. Sounds plausible. But, only time and resolving the leadership challenge in AI will tell if these circles make the cut or crash and burn like so many AI schemes before them. For those betting on AI for their future, AiAi is worth watching closely.
With a potent blend of structure and real-world collaboration, AiAi’s approach could pave the way for more credible, profitable AI journeys, instead of just another well-lit conference room full of unrealized dreams.
