explore · Problem Solving, Strategy · 60–90 min · 3-12 people · medium energy

AI Scaling Blockers Diagnostic

The AI Scaling Blockers Diagnostic helps teams identify and address the strategic, technical, organizational, and cultural barriers hindering the successful implementation of AI initiatives across an enterprise. By surfacing these hidden obstacles, teams can shift from questioning *why* AI isn't scaling to focusing on *what* needs to be fixed.

When to use AI Scaling Blockers Diagnostic

Use this method when AI initiatives are stalled or failing to deliver expected results, and the root causes are unclear. It's particularly useful for cross-functional teams responsible for AI implementation.

What it solves

Lack of clear understanding of why AI initiatives are not scaling, leading to frustration and wasted resources.

How to run AI Scaling Blockers Diagnostic, step by step

  1. Introduce the four categories of blockers: Strategy & Organization, Technology & Data, Governance & Operating Model, and People & Culture. (5 minutes)
  2. Individually, have participants brainstorm specific blockers within each category related to their experience. (15 minutes)
  3. As a group, share and map the identified blockers onto a shared canvas, clustering similar themes. (30 minutes)
  4. Prioritize the most critical blockers to address in the next 6-12 months using dot voting or another prioritization technique. (20 minutes)
  5. For the top prioritized blockers, define targeted actions or enablers to address them. (20 minutes)

Materials needed

  • AI Scaling Blockers Canvas (physical or digital)
  • Sticky notes
  • Markers
  • Dot stickers (for voting)
  • Timer

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage honest and open discussion, even if it involves challenging existing assumptions or practices.
  • Ensure all participants have a voice and that dominant personalities don't overshadow quieter ones.
  • Focus on identifying actionable solutions rather than dwelling on the problems.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants may focus on surface-level issues rather than digging deeper to uncover the root causes. - Probe further with 'why' questions to get to the underlying issues.
  • The discussion may become overly negative or blame-oriented. - Remind participants that the goal is to identify solutions and move forward constructively.

Variations

  • Use a different framework for categorizing blockers, such as the McKinsey 7-S framework.
  • Conduct the diagnostic in multiple sessions, focusing on one category of blockers per session.
  • Incorporate external data or benchmarks to provide additional context and insights.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a digital whiteboard like Miro or Mural to collaboratively map and cluster blockers. Ensure remote participants have equal opportunity to contribute through virtual sticky notes and breakout rooms.

What it produces

A prioritized list of key blockers to AI scaling, along with targeted actions or enablers to address them.

Origin

Developed by Board of Innovation — source

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