Is AI a Game-Changer for Your Business—or Just an Expensive Distraction?

If you’ve invested in AI—or are on the edge of doing so—you’re not alone. But you may also be wondering: what’s actually working, what’s hype, and how do we avoid wasted investment?

That’s exactly the question we explored in our recent session: AI Ignition Engine: Is AI a Game-Changer for Your Business—or Just an Expensive Distraction? featuring Dr. Sam Scarpino, Director of AI + Life Sciences at the Institute for Experiential AI (EAI), and Tim Weidinger, EAI’s Head of Business Development.

Watch the full session here:

‍

The Wake-Up Call: Buying AI Isn’t the Same as Benefiting from AI

Over 84% of organizations bought off-the-shelf AI tools in the 12 months following the launch of ChatGPT. A year later, over half of those organizations were already rebuilding with proprietary systems—and many still couldn’t define what their AI strategy had achieved.

Why? Because tools without data, upskilling, or a clear business case are just… tools.

Enter the AI Ignition Engine

The AI Ignition Engine is EAI’s response to the noise. It’s not a product, and it’s not a pitch. It’s a 5- to 8-week engagement where our experts work with you to assess your organization's:

• Technology readiness
• Data infrastructure and practices
• Workforce skills and upskilling needs

Through workshops, assessments, and expert-led collaboration, we help you build a custom, practical roadmap for high-ROI AI adoption—without the fluff or vendor hype. This is where strategy meets feasibility. As Sam Scarpino put it,

“The biggest gap we see isn’t excitement—it’s alignment. We help organizations stack rank what’s possible, what’s valuable, and what’s feasible right now.”

Three Key Lessons from the Session

1. You’re likely underestimating the role of data

AI is only as good as your data. But good data doesn’t just appear—it requires intentional culture, architecture, and literacy. That’s why every Ignition Engine begins with a candid look at your current data environment.

2. Upskilling isn’t optional anymore

AI-literate teams are the difference between risky experiments and strategic execution. Whether you’ve already made AI investments or are just starting, your workforce’s ability to use these tools safely and effectively will determine their success.

3. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to AI risk

Responsible AI is not a checklist—it’s a living framework. We help you build a governance model that matches your culture and risk appetite, especially in highly regulated sectors like healthcare, life sciences, and finance.

Why This Matters Now

The gap between AI haves and have-nots is widening—and it’s happening quarter by quarter. Whether you’re an early adopter who bought too soon, or a cautious observer trying not to be left behind, now is the moment to reassess and recalibrate.

“If you don’t have a strategy, one will be written for you—by your vendors, by your teams, or by the market.”
— Dr. Sam Scarpino

Ready to make your next AI move the right one?

Let’s talk. The AI Ignition Engine meets you exactly where you are—no hype, just expertise.

Resources

Connect with the team.

‍Explore the AI Ignition Engine in more detail.

View the slides from the live session.

‍

‍