The concept of artificial intelligence (AI) was coined in the 1950s by John McCarthy. Over the past seventy years, technological progress has been unstoppable, but the question for organizations and managers has remained the same: how can I best harness technological innovation to drive organizational development? Using AI in an organisation can create sustainable value through AI based on the following five pillars.

1. Business Strategy

Clearly defined and prioritized business objectives, use cases, and measurement of AI value.

AI can be used for a wide range of business needs, so one of the most important steps is clearly defining strategic objectives. Define the business objectives first, then look at how AI can help your organization achieve them. Gartner found in a 2022 study that barriers to AI adoption are often due to a lack of knowledge of how to measure its value (19%) and a lack of understanding of AI's benefits and use cases (19%). All these reasons prevent companies from achieving the maximum benefits of their AI investments. A proper AI portfolio management plan that aligns with strategic priorities is 2.4 times more likely to reach the "mature" level of AI implementation.

2. Technology Strategy

An AI-ready application and data platform architecture aligned parameters for build vs. buy decisions, and plans for where to host data and applications to optimize outcomes.

Equally important is the strategic consideration of technology requirements. The benefits of AI can only be realized with an application and data platform architecture that meets the organization's requirements. The architecture of the organization always determines the technologies required.

3. AI Strategy and Experience

A systematic, customer-centric approach to AI that includes applying the right model to the right use case and experience in building, testing, and realizing AI value across multiple business units, use cases, and dimensions. 

With a customer-centric and systematic approach to AI, AI can be used successfully. According to a 2023 survey by Gartner, 41 percent of mature AI organizations are using customer success business metrics, and 77 percent of mature organizations are adopting an AI-first strategy, systematically considering AI for all use cases. Also, using the right tool for a given task in each case is critical. The successful operation of AI is illustrated by its democratization within the organization. The more people use AI, the more successful it is. Critical factors for successful AI are those that also can reveal its barriers: 

• the number of AI use cases implemented, 
• the length of time spent in use, 
• the extent to which they have scaled within the company, 
• the extent of the value they create.

4. Organization and Culture

A clear operating model, leadership support, change-management process, access to continuous learning and development, and strong relationships with diverse subject-matter experts. 

An inclusive approach to the design of the operating model is recommended. Effective AI operating models leverage investments in people, processes, and technology. The most value from AI is achieved by organizations whose leadership recognizes and supports the potential of AI. Also, key is the organization's ability to manage change and access to skills development, continuous learning, and certifications. Within the organization, it is necessary to have technologists with the right skills in the right roles and to cultivate relationships with subject matter experts across a broad range of competencies.

5. AI Governance

Implementation of processes, controls, and accountability structures to govern data privacy, security, and responsible use of AI. 

The safe use of AI is everyone's responsibility and accountability. Therefore, organizations using AI need to develop an understanding of the data governance, security, and responsible AI implications of their decisions, regarding risks and opportunities.

If you're interested in how to get started and identifying the first steps and priority areas in defining your AI strategy and roadmap, read Microsoft's white paper "Building a Foundation for AI Success: a Leader's Guide," which can be downloaded after registration here. Noventiq, with its global expertise, can provide you and your organization with the most professional AI team to achieve the most tremendous success in implementing and using AI.