Later Gets Expensive: Focused Pilots for SMEs

Key Takeaways

• Pilot-First Strategy: Don't start with core processes, but test in supporting areas like service or sales
• 12-Week Rule: Choose clear pain points, define three KPIs and make before-after success measurable
• Governance Priority: Clarify data access, responsibilities and approval processes early instead of retrofitting
• Hybrid Approach: Run open models locally where sensible, use APIs for complex cases and avoid lock-in
• Senior Team Focus: Quality over size, small experienced teams with sovereign AI usage instead of large crews