We are flooded with sales pitches for expensive AI-powered software suites. What is a simple, non-technical decision-making filter we can use to evaluate whether a tool actually improves operations or is just theater?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Many business owners waste thousands of dollars on hyped AI software that does not integrate with their core operations. To avoid this, establish a simple, non-technical decision-making filter for any new software request.

Before approving any AI purchase, require the requesting team member to answer three practical questions:
- Which specific seat on our Accountability Chart will own this tool and be responsible for its output?
- Which core process in our operating manual does this software directly improve?
- What is the specific metric on our weekly Scorecard that this tool is expected to move within ninety days?

If they cannot answer these questions, do not buy the software. It is likely a shiny distraction rather than a tool that will drive actual business value.

Force any proposed tool to earn its way onto your software budget. By tying every AI purchase to a specific seat, process, and metric, you eliminate theater and ensure that your technology investments generate a clear, measurable return.