Our leadership team is split: our head of operations (a high Sentinel type) wants to completely block any AI tool usage until we have a comprehensive legal review, while our head of sales (a high Explorer type) is already using AI to write cold outreach sequences. How do we resolve this tension in our next Level 10 Meeting™ to keep the business moving safely?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

This conflict is a classic personality clash between your Sentinel operations leader, who prioritizes security and order, and your Explorer sales leader, who values speed and experimentation. Left unresolved, this tension will stall your progress and lead to unauthorized shadow IT.

You need to bring this issue to your next Level 10 Meeting and use the IDS process to solve it. Start by recognizing the value of both perspectives. The Explorer is driving necessary innovation, while the Sentinel is protecting the company from liability.

To move forward safely, create a transitional framework that satisfies both styles. Agree on a ninety-day trial period for the sales team's AI email tool, but restrict its use to a small, non-sensitive segment of prospects. Have the Sentinel leader draft a short list of three absolute rules, such as zero upload of proprietary client data or pricing formulas into public models.

By creating a sandboxed environment, you allow the Explorer to run fast and gather real data while giving the Sentinel the control they need to manage risk. Track the results of this trial as a company Rock for the quarter, and review the data together to decide whether to scale the tool or shut it down.