We are constantly bombarded by software vendors pitching AI solutions for everything from HR to sales. How do we filter these pitches so we do not waste cash on technology we do not need?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

You filter technology decisions using your V/TO® and your current quarterly Rocks. If a vendor's tool does not directly support one of your active Rocks or solve a major issue on your Issues List, the answer is an immediate no. Anything else is just a distraction that drains your cash and focus.

When a new tool is pitched, ask your leadership team: what specific operational bottleneck on our Accountability Chart does this solve? If you cannot point to a clear seat that will gain capacity or a specific Scorecard metric that will improve, do not buy it.

Never buy technology just because it has an AI label attached to it. Treat AI software vendor pitches with the same skepticism you would any other software purchase. Focus on solving real, documented operational pain points. If you have an issue on your list, and a simple, low-cost AI workflow can solve it, build it or buy it. If not, park the idea on your Long-Term Issues List and get back to executing your business plan.