How do I prioritise which processes to automate with AI?
Quick Answer
Prioritise processes for AI automation using a framework that scores each opportunity on three dimensions: business impact (time savings, cost reduction, quality improvement), technical feasibility (data availability, complexity, integration requirements), and organisational readiness (stakeholder support, change management needs). Start with high-impact, high-feasibility opportunities that build confidence and demonstrate value.
Summary
Key takeaways
- Use a structured scoring framework across impact, feasibility, and readiness
- Start with processes that are high-volume, rules-based, and data-rich
- Quick wins build organisational confidence for more ambitious projects
- Avoid starting with your most complex or politically sensitive process
A Practical Scoring Framework
Characteristics of Ideal AI Automation Candidates
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Not necessarily. The most expensive process is often the most complex and politically sensitive. Start with a moderately impactful process that is technically straightforward to demonstrate value quickly, then tackle larger opportunities with proven capability and organisational support.
Start with one or two processes for your first AI project. Trying to automate too many processes simultaneously dilutes focus and increases risk. Scale up after demonstrating success with initial use cases.
Factor data remediation into the project plan and timeline. Sometimes it is more effective to choose a slightly lower-impact process with better data quality for the first project, while preparing data for the higher-impact opportunity in parallel.
Yes. Process owners provide essential insight into the practical realities, edge cases, and political considerations that quantitative scoring alone cannot capture. Their involvement also builds the stakeholder support needed for successful implementation.
Use the objective scoring framework to create a transparent, evidence-based ranking. Share the methodology and scores openly. Where scores are close, consider which project builds capability that benefits subsequent initiatives, creating a natural sequencing.
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