Move First, Align Fast

Foreword

By Murli Buluswar, Head of US Consumer Analytics, Citi

We are perhaps at the precipice of a technology-driven disruption that will reshape society in ways we did not imagine in the recent past. In my view, we might see more innovation in the next decade than we have seen in any century in the history of humankind.

Firms, industries, and economies will be redefined by how they reshape themselves through the power of artificial intelligence. What is also fascinating is that this conviction is becoming increasingly widespread; it is much less of a novelty and much more of an imperative.

While it is early in the profound stages that lie ahead, many mature firms in traditional industries are still grappling with what AI means for them and how they build the muscle to compete effectively in this brave new world. Many firms are struggling to translate the excitement and trepidation of AI into their firms' operations in a concrete and material way.

The gap exists because much of the discussion of AI thus far has focused on tools and the underlying technology. While these tools are indeed marvelous, they themselves cannot materially redefine how firms operate in an AI first world.

What is needed is a structured framework that connects the technical capabilities of AI to granular measurements of success. CEOs, CXOs, and board members must have a deeper understanding of the specific opportunities they wish to pursue and what the metrics of success are and have a coordinated operating ...