Module 5 • 22 min
Automation Suitability
Decide whether a workflow needs AI, conventional automation, redesign, or no automation.Core Concept
Not every manual process should become an AI system. Some need simpler workflow changes, clearer ownership, or traditional rules-based automation.
This choice influences the value case, implementation effort, governance requirements, and the organization’s ability to operate the system after launch.
How to Apply the Framework
Assess the degree of judgment, variability, data availability, consequence, and required human oversight before committing to AI.
Use a current workflow, its measurable baseline, and the real people and systems involved. A strategy that works only in a simplified example is not yet a decision-ready operating plan.
Decision Checklist
- State the business outcome and the bounded workflow this decision will improve.
- Identify the accountable business owner, technical owner, and required human reviewer.
- Confirm the evidence, dependencies, controls, and decision gate required before moving forward.
Worked Decision Scenario
A finance team considers using AI for invoice matching. The analysis shows that most cases follow stable rules, while a small group of exceptions requires judgment and policy interpretation.
The first design uses conventional automation for the repeatable majority and human review for exceptions. AI is introduced only where it improves a clearly defined judgment task.
Apply it
Working Exercise
Run a suitability test on your opportunity.
Saved locally for this review prototype. Your response will become private account data when the approved course backend is connected.