How to build an AI strategy for your business. Part two.

Once you understand what AI can do, the next step is deciding where it fits and, unsurprisingly, that starts with strategy.

An AI strategy isn’t about automating everything overnight, nor is it about asking ChatGPT to do everything (you know who you are!)

It’s about identifying where AI can have the most meaningful impact in your business today, in five years, and in the decade ahead. For some organisations, that might mean improving customer experience or streamlining marketing.

For others, it could be smarter forecasting, operational efficiency, or enhanced data analysis. (I am partial to some good data analysis).

The key to it all is alignment! AI should serve your business objectives and reflect your values (do you know them?)

Technology should strengthen your brand, not distort it. That’s why ethical, transparent use of AI is essential, from the data you use to the outcomes you create. Current frameworks such as the EU AI Act and the UK’s emerging AI governance model underline this shift: responsible AI is no longer optional, it’s expected.

Start by asking:

• Where are your biggest bottlenecks or inefficiencies?

• Which tasks rely heavily on manual work or guesswork?

• Where could better insight or prediction improve performance or profit?

  
  

These areas often hold the “quick wins” opportunities where AI can add immediate value and measurable results.

Looking ahead, consider your roadmap.

In five years, could AI help your team make data-driven decisions faster? Could it enhance how you market or personalise customer experiences? In ten years, could it unlock new products or revenue streams altogether? Thinking long-term ensures your business stays adaptable as technology continues to evolve.

Of course, not every business needs a full AI rollout right now, and that’s the point. Each brand is unique. The right approach depends on your sector, size, goals, and digital readiness. What matters is building awareness and planning early, so you’re prepared as adoption becomes the norm.

At She Consults, we design practical, ethical, and tailored AI roadmaps for businesses; exploring opportunities, identifying risks, and supporting implementation. With our combined experience in business strategy, marketing, and AI ethics, we help you integrate technology that enhances your brand, your people, and your future.

FAQs - AI strategy

1. Where should I start with AI in my business?

Begin with small, high-impact areas such as automating manual tasks, improving marketing insights, or streamlining operations. Focus on where AI can save time or enhance customer experience first.

2. How do I make sure my AI use is ethical?

Follow the principles outlined in the UK AI governance framework and the EU AI Act: be transparent, fair, and accountable. Always ensure your technology supports your brand values and treats data responsibly ethics should guide every stage of adoption.

3. Does every business need an AI strategy right now?

Not necessarily. Each organisation’s needs and readiness differ. What matters is understanding where AI could make a difference today and planning how to expand responsibly over the next five to ten years.

Once you understand what AI can do, the next step is deciding where it fits, and, lo and behold, that starts with strategy.

AI statement: AI helped to create the images on this blog.