Reflecting on my journey with generative AI, I’ve learned that winning leadership support means marrying technical innovation with clear business value. Here’s a method that can be used to prioritize AI use cases based on efficiency gains and dollar impact:
1️⃣ Identify & Quantify Use Cases
Begin by listing potential AI initiatives — from automating customer support to data management. For each idea, estimate the efficiency gains (think time saved, error reduction) and attach a dollar value to these improvements. I recall a project where automating routine data queries saved our team over 20 hours a week — directly translating into significant cost savings.
2️⃣ Evaluate Strategic Alignment
Not every innovation fits the broader business strategy. Focus on projects that align with your company’s core objectives, whether that’s enhancing customer experience, reducing operational costs, or driving innovation. In my experience, aligning AI projects with strategic goals can turn initial skepticism into strong executive support.
3️⃣ Build the Business Case
When preparing your pitch, speak the language of leadership:
🎯 Efficiency Gain: Detail how the AI solution will reduce manual labor, minimize errors, or speed up processes.
🎯 Dollar Value: Present concrete ROI figures, whether through cost reductions or increased revenue projections.
🎯 Risk Reduction & Scalability: Highlight that generative AI isn’t just about efficiency — it can reduce risks by automating error-prone tasks and improving data accuracy. This means fewer human errors and more reliable outputs. Plus, once proven effective, these AI solutions can scale across the organization, compounding the benefits over time.
4️⃣ Pilot and Iterate
A small-scale pilot is a great way to validate assumptions and refine your business case. In one initiative I led, a pilot program demonstrated a 30% boost in productivity, which not only confirmed our projections but also paved the way for broader adoption across the company.
5️⃣ Tell a Compelling Story
Data is crucial, but so is narrative. Combine hard numbers with real-world examples and industry peers and references. The pilot success story narrative became the catalyst for full-scale investment in our AI strategy.
By following this methodical approach, you can build a persuasive case that clearly communicates the strategic benefits and tangible ROI of generative AI. I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences — what has worked for you in pitching AI initiatives to leadership?
