converge · Strategy · 60–90 min · 3-8 people · medium energy

AI Roadmap Development

This method helps teams create a phased roadmap for AI adoption, outlining key initiatives and milestones across different stages of maturity. It ensures a structured and progressive approach to AI implementation, building towards a long-term vision.

When to use AI Roadmap Development

Use this method after defining the AI strategy and when the team needs to plan the implementation of AI initiatives over time.

What it solves

Ad-hoc AI projects without a clear long-term vision, difficulty prioritizing AI investments, lack of a structured approach to AI implementation.

How to run AI Roadmap Development, step by step

  1. Define AI Adoption Waves (10 mins). Briefly review the concept of AI adoption waves (e.g., Wave 1: Automation, Wave 2: Insights, Wave 3: Autonomy).
  2. Identify Wave 1 Initiatives (20 mins). Brainstorm specific AI initiatives that can be implemented in the short term to achieve quick wins and build momentum.
  3. Identify Wave 2 Initiatives (20 mins). Brainstorm AI initiatives that will build on Wave 1 and deliver more significant insights and value.
  4. Envision Wave 3 Initiatives (20 mins). Envision future AI initiatives that will enable autonomous operations and transform the business.
  5. Create Roadmap (20 mins). Organize the initiatives into a timeline, assigning milestones and timelines for each phase of adoption.

Materials needed

  • Whiteboard or digital whiteboard
  • Markers or digital pens
  • Timeline template
  • Timer

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage participants to think realistically about the resources and capabilities required for each initiative.
  • Ensure that the roadmap is flexible and can be adapted as new technologies and opportunities emerge.

Common pitfalls

  • Creating a roadmap that is too ambitious or unrealistic. - Focus on achievable milestones and timelines.
  • Failing to consider the dependencies between different initiatives. - Ensure that the roadmap is logically sequenced.

Variations

  • Use a risk assessment matrix to identify potential challenges and mitigation strategies.
  • Involve stakeholders from different departments to ensure buy-in and alignment.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a digital project management tool or whiteboard to visualize and track the AI roadmap.

What it produces

A documented AI roadmap with key initiatives, milestones, and timelines for each phase of adoption.

Origin

Adapted from Board of Innovation — source

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