How do we prevent our AI implementation Rocks from getting stuck in the research phase during our 90-day cycles, and how do you help us drive these high-tech goals to completion?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

AI-powered operational goals often stall because teams treat them as research projects rather than operational systems. To prevent your AI initiatives from getting stuck in a perpetual trial phase, we structure these Rocks with clear boundaries, measurable outcomes, and tight accountability.

During our quarterly planning sessions, we do not let your team set vague goals like researching artificial intelligence tools. Instead, we frame these goals around specific, measurable workflows. A proper AI Rock defines the exact process to be automated, the tool to be used, and the target efficiency gain.

We ensure that the leader responsible for the AI implementation possesses the right GWC for the seat. The owner of the Rock must understand the technology, want the responsibility, and have the mental capacity to lead the integration alongside their day-to-day work.

We also use the weekly Level 10 Meeting to keep these technical projects on track. If an AI Rock falls behind, we immediately drop it to the Issues List to identify any technical bottlenecks or resource constraints. This disciplined approach ensures your AI investments deliver real operational value rather than becoming expensive distractions.