Study: 71 Percent of Companies Launch AI Projects Without a Business Case

A recent study has found that 71 percent of companies start AI projects without a clear business case. This practice could jeopardize the long-term scalability and success of such initiatives. The investigation suggests that many companies mistakenly view a successful pilot as evidence of the scalability of their AI solutions. The study highlights that pilot projects are often conducted in isolation, without considering the real conditions and challenges that may arise during broader implementation. This isolated perspective leads companies to not fully grasp the actual requirements and risks.

A successful pilot is not necessarily an indicator of success on a larger scale. A central issue is that many companies lack the necessary resources or the right strategy to scale their AI projects beyond the pilot phase. The study shows that there is often no comprehensive analysis of market conditions or internal processes conducted before launching an AI project. This can lead to misinvestments and inefficient operations. The researchers emphasize that a clearly defined business case is crucial for understanding the goals and benefits of AI initiatives.

Such a business case should consider not only the financial aspects but also the technological and operational requirements. Companies that neglect this risk their AI projects failing or not delivering the expected results. Another aspect of the study is the necessity of involving employees in the process. Often, there is a lack of training and a clear understanding of the technology, which can hinder the acceptance and success of AI projects. The researchers recommend that companies invest in the training of their employees to support the implementation of AI solutions.

The study also shows that companies that have successfully implemented AI projects often have a clear strategy and strong management. These companies have managed to integrate their AI initiatives into the overall strategy of the organization and provide the necessary resources. This leads to a higher success rate in scaling AI solutions. The results of the study raise questions about the future development of AI projects in companies. Experts warn that without a solid foundation and clear strategies, many companies could fall behind in AI development.

Competitiveness could be at risk if companies are unable to successfully scale their AI initiatives. The study was conducted by a team of researchers specializing in the impact of AI in the business world. The findings were presented at a digital transformation conference held on May 15, 2026. The researchers urge companies to rethink their approaches to implementing AI and ensure that they are based on solid foundations.