Where should an enterprise AI initiative begin?

A strong AI initiative does not begin with model selection. It begins with a valuable problem whose outcome can be measured.

1. Define the problem precisely

Replace “we want to use AI” with a specific bottleneck, its users, input data and intended result.

2. Assess data and access

Data quality, ownership, confidentiality and freshness define the solution’s boundaries. Security must enter the architecture from the start.

3. Build a small but real pilot

Use real users and representative data, but keep the scope narrow so the team can learn quickly and change course safely.

4. Design for operations

Logging, quality monitoring, permissions, user feedback and update paths should be clear before production deployment.