AI is everywhere right now. New platforms, apps and tools launch daily, each promising to transform how we work. For leaders, the temptation to dive in is strong. But without a plan, adopting AI can quickly become expensive guesswork. That’s why the smartest approach to AI in business is not “buy it all” but “buy it right.”
The Risk of Chasing Shiny Tools
Many companies rush to adopt AI without asking the right questions. The result? Subscriptions pile up, tools overlap and teams waste hours trying to stitch them together. Instead of saving time or money, leaders end up adding complexity and cost.
What to Look for Before You Invest
- Clarity on the problem – Don’t start with the tool, start with the challenge. What problem are you actually trying to solve?
- Fit with existing systems – The best tools integrate smoothly with what you already use.
- Scalability – Choose tools that can grow with you rather than ones you’ll outgrow in six months.
- Ease of adoption – If your team won’t use it, the tool has no value.
Why Planning Pays Off
The leaders who get the most out of AI in business are the ones who think strategically. They test tools in small pilots, measure results and roll out only what works. This avoids wasted spend and builds trust with their teams.
As *McKinsey research shows, companies that tie AI investments to clear business outcomes are more likely to see measurable returns than those that adopt tools without direction.
Build an AI Playbook That Works
That’s exactly what my course AI in Business is designed to help with. It gives you the tools, frameworks and confidence to make smarter choices about AI adoption.
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Transforming Potential into Performance
*Sources
McKinsey (2023). The State of AI in 2023: Generative AI’s Breakout Year