AI is the most powerful business tool since the internet. But deploying it without preparation is like installing a jet engine on a bicycle — impressive, but ultimately destructive.
The 5-Point AI Readiness Checklist
1. Data Infrastructure
Do you have clean, accessible, structured data? AI models are only as good as the data they consume. If your data lives in disconnected spreadsheets, you need to fix that first.
2. Process Documentation
Can you describe your business processes step-by-step? If a process lives only in someone's head, an AI agent can't execute it.
3. Integration Capability
Do your tools have APIs? Agents need to connect to your existing systems — CRM, ERP, email, databases.
4. Team Buy-In
Is your team excited or terrified? Successful AI adoption requires champions, not resistors.
5. Clear Success Metrics
What does success look like? "Implement AI" is not a goal. "Reduce invoice processing time by 60%" is.