Welcome back to the second part of our five-part series on AI Transformation Roadmap. In this blog, we’ll introduce you to a key figure in your AI journey: the internal AI champion. We’ll discuss why having a dedicated leader is crucial for maintaining momentum and ensuring the success of your AI pilot projects. You’ll also discover how this champion serves as a bridge between your organisation and third-party vendors, a project manager, and a motivator for the team.
But first, we need to understand what is an internal AI champion?
To begin, consider the perspective of an individual looking to champion AI within their organization. Often, both individuals and businesses encounter challenges when it comes to prioritising AI. They grapple with reaching a consensus on the initial steps and the effort required to embark on the AI journey. It’s important to recognize that this journey can vary significantly in complexity and scope for each organisation, so there is no single job description for an internal AI champion. More often, this role is about accurately assessing company needs and matching those needs to available solutions.
The Importance of an Internal AI Champion
Today, AI is transforming industries, reshaping business landscapes, and offering unprecedented opportunities for organisations. Yet, for many businesses, the journey to utilise the full potential of AI can be daunting. The complexity of AI technologies, the need for strategic alignment, and the challenges of cultural adoption can create roadblocks that hinder progress.
This is where the internal AI champion steps into the spotlight. The champion is a driving force, a leader crucial in guiding the organisation through its AI journey. Here are five reasons why having an internal AI champion is so important:
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Maintaining Momentum: Implementing AI isn’t a one-time event; it’s a continuous process. A dedicated leader is needed to keep the AI initiatives on track and ensure that they don’t lose steam. The champion’s role is to maintain the momentum, regularly assess the project’s progress, and recalibrate the strategy as needed.
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Liaison with Third-Party Vendors: In many AI projects, organisations work with external vendors or partners to implement solutions. The internal AI champion acts as the primary point of contact and communicator between the organisation and these third parties. They ensure the vendor’s solutions align with the organisation’s needs and objectives.
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Project Management: AI initiatives often involve multiple teams and complex projects. The champion takes on the role of a project manager, overseeing the coordination of efforts, timelines, and resource allocation. They keep the project on track, ensuring it meets its milestones.
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Motivating the Team: Introducing AI can be met with resistance and scepticism within an organisation. The champion’s responsibility is to motivate and inspire the team, explaining the benefits of AI and providing a vision for success. They instil a sense of purpose and excitement about the AI journey.
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Strategic Alignment: AI initiatives must align with the organisation’s strategic goals. The champion ensures that the AI project serves the overall mission and objectives of the organisation. They ensure that AI doesn’t become a siloed technology but is integrated seamlessly into the overall business strategy.
Characteristics of the Internal AI Champion
Now that we understand the significance of an internal AI champion let’s dive deeper into the specific responsibilities and roles this individual takes on:
The AI champion is a:
Leader
The champion is the visionary leader who articulates the potential benefits of AI within the organisation. They create a clear and compelling narrative for how AI can drive innovation, efficiency, and profitability.
Problem Solver
AI projects often address specific business challenges. The champion must identify these challenges, assess their AI viability, and work with the team and vendors to find AI-driven solutions.
Technology Navigator
The champion stays updated on the latest AI technologies and trends. They evaluate which technologies are most relevant to the organisation’s needs and can provide a competitive edge.
Collaborator
Collaboration is key in AI projects. The champion fosters collaboration across different teams and departments to ensure the success of AI initiatives. They are instrumental in building relationships and communicating the benefits of AI across the organisation.
Change Agent
The introduction of AI often necessitates not only operational but also cultural changes. The champion embraces this role by promoting a culture of experimentation and innovation. They encourage the adoption of AI and help the organisation adapt to this technological shift.
In essence, the internal AI champion plays a key role in driving the successful adoption of AI within the organisation. Their leadership and guidance can transform AI from a mere concept into a practical and value-generating tool. With their commitment, expertise, and vision, the champion propels the organisation towards a future where AI is seamlessly integrated into daily operations, driving innovation and success.
Now that you understand the significance of having an internal AI champion, it’s time to take the next step towards enhancing your AI initiatives.
Download our eBook
To dive deeper into AI’s benefits and determine the most suitable AI use cases for your organisation, download our comprehensive eBook, “How to Leverage AI into Your Existing Investments.” This eBook will provide valuable insights, practical tips, and real-world examples to help you maximise artificial intelligence in your business.
As we continue our journey through this five-part series, stay tuned for the next segment, where we’ll explore how to determine the most suitable AI use cases for your organisation. The road to AI implementation is exciting, and your champion is your guide on this transformative journey!
