Three non-negotiables for sustainable AI growth and transformation strategies

Thoughtful technology deployment matters and more than ever. We’re now starting to see tangible shifts from organisations that say AI will have an impact on their business, to those that confirm it already has. Recognition in the investments of human capability turning innovation into impact is also, finally, coming through and I would hope that leaders rethink the prioritisation they place on governance within their transformation strategies.

Effective governance is essential for ethical, scalable transformation. It also challenges traditional notions of ROI, urging leaders to look beyond short-term gains and embrace long-term value creation for clients and employees alike.

As organisations race to implement these technologies, sustainable success and expected returns on transformation investments is dependent on the strength of these three interconnected pillars: technology, people and governance.

Adopt technology thoughtfully

The first foundation to assess in your growth strategy is technology – it is both an enabler of growth and a defensive asset. It helps organisations adapt to disruption, defend market positions and seize new opportunities. However, the focus shouldn’t be on chasing the latest technology but on deploying the right one thoughtfully. One way to start is by testing the pain points and applying use cases that deliver immediate productivity and experience gains for employees and clients. If you can get this right, it can become a superpower for your business.

Your people are at the heart of transformation

Having a superpower is one thing but if no one can use it, it’s no longer valuable. Something business leaders shouldn’t forget is no matter how advanced the technology, it is people who determine whether it succeeds and whether it can be maximised. In today’s competitive market, upskilling and creating new roles tailored for AI is essential.

Traditional training models are no longer fit for purpose either. Instead, hands-on, experiential learning is key. Leaders need to recognise that expertise can come from unexpected places.

“Sometimes the hidden ninjas who have developed skills independently are the ones who can drive the greatest value for your business, while influencing a company culture fit for the future.”

Investing in human capital doesn’t just complement technology, it’s a prerequisite for meaningful transformation.

Effective governance is essential

Another core area for transformation is governance. It’s really surprising to see this so low on the priority list of investments from leaders, especially when the concern around ethical use remains high. Effective governance will ensure that innovation is safe, ethical and scalable. Since it’s become very clear that AI adoption shouldn’t just be a box-ticking exercise, good governance and accountability provides a clearer means to reaching your goals. Not only is it essential in a rapidly changing regulatory environment, but having the right governance is also key to responsible AI use. Neglecting it can lead to unsafe outcomes.

Assess value beyond the bottom line

Sustainable success itself can’t be tied to traditional ROI. Although 21% of business leaders expect to get significant returns from AI in the next year, it’s not realistic. True value emerges over time. Productivity improvements and enhanced experiences will come before cost efficiency and will be the true measure of transformation success, as well as market share.

We need to rethink the notion and design of ROI because this technology is opening a universe of opportunities that haven’t been considered before. Beyond the margin point, investing in AI can increase the value and experience of your clients and your people. We often neglect that side when we only see value in financial figures.

What is apparent, if 2025 was the year to fasten your seatbelt, 2026 is the year to keep it firmly fastened. The future success of your business transformation will not be determined by the technology itself but by the strength and capabilities of your people, effective governance and the thought you put into the tools you invest in. In a world where change is constant, act as if tomorrow is watching and get your foundations right today. This will help ensure your organisation is prepared for the AI-powered future.