My leadership team wants to invest fifty thousand dollars in custom AI development, but I do not have the technical background to verify if their plan is sound. What specific questions must I ask them to pressure test this investment before signing off?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

You do not need to understand Python, neural networks, or vector databases to protect your company capital. Your job as the owner is to run the business, not write the code. When your leadership team requests fifty thousand dollars for a custom AI project, you must pressure test their proposal with three practical questions. First, ask them which exact core process on your company V/TO this integration will streamline, and what specific Scorecard measurable it will improve. If they cannot name a metric, do not fund it. Second, ask them how long it will take to build a basic working prototype using off the shelf tools before committing the full budget. If they cannot deliver a rough prototype in thirty days, the project is too complex and risky. Third, ask them who on the Accountability Chart will own the ongoing maintenance of the system once it is built. Custom AI software is not a one-time purchase. It requires regular updates, API monitoring, and troubleshooting. If they do not have a designated internal seat with the GWC to manage this digital asset, you are buying a liability rather than an asset. By focusing on process, prototypes, and accountability, you can make highly accurate investment decisions without ever reading a single line of code.