The AI Book

CHAPTER 9The Art of Involving Boards in Embracing AI

By Dr Sabine Dembkowski¹

¹Managing Partner, Better Boards Ltd

Successful AI transformations start with visionary leaders who understand how to deploy technology as part of a broader strategy to future-proof their organizations. It is clear that organizations need to be prepared or face inevitable decline. Boards are being challenged to play their part in providing oversight and governance of the efforts involved in defining and delivering an AI strategy, along with the accompanying organizational transformation. Analysts and experts are clear: boards “must”, “should” and “have to” embrace AI.

But are they doing so?

The Art and Science of Board Dynamics

The reality is that AI seldom makes it onto the agenda of traditional, legacy organizations. The call to embrace AI is far from being the only demand placed on boards these days. They are also grappling with the ever-increasing complexities of governance, environmental and social issues, and the integration of a diverse set of stakeholders, geopolitical risks and challenges. The agendas of boards are not merely full; they’re overflowing.

Being a board member is so much more than a job and is often part of the overall identity of the individuals who serve on boards. The preservation of this identity takes centre-stage and will be defended under any circumstances, and at any cost. The smallest perceived threat to that identity can trigger the fight-or-flight response.

As people, ...