Our managers keep proposing flashy AI projects that sound impressive but do not move our operational numbers. How do we separate real operational AI progress from expensive tech theater?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

To eliminate AI theater in your business, you must enforce a strict, numbers-driven approach to every technology proposal. Do not let hype dictate your operational strategy.

When a manager proposes an AI project, require them to present it using your existing EOS framework. Have them define exactly which core process this tool will impact and which weekly Scorecard metric it will improve. If they cannot point to a specific number that will go up or down, the project is likely theater.

Next, run every proposal through a simple cost-benefit analysis. Calculate the total cost of adoption, including software licensing, integration consulting, and team training time. Compare this against the projected savings in labor hours or increased throughput.

If the numbers make sense, assign the project as a quarterly Rock to a single owner on your Accountability Chart. This owner must be accountable for hitting specific, measurable milestones by the end of the ninety days.

If a project cannot pass this simple business test, table it. Focus your limited time and resources on the quiet, unsexy automations that solve real bottlenecks in your daily operations. That is how you build a highly profitable, AI-powered company instead of just a fashionable one.