The ten questions
- Where will AI create value for us, and how much?
- Who owns AI here?
- What AI are we already using, including what staff use on their own?
- What data does AI touch, and how do we protect it?
- How are we keeping AI secure?
- How do we check AI output is right, and where does a human sign off?
- Which suppliers are we relying on, and how easily could we switch?
- Do our people have the skills, and how are we bringing them with us?
- How will we measure the return?
- How much risk are we willing to take, and when do we stop?
One question in full
Every question in the briefing comes with why it matters, what a good answer sounds like and the red flags to listen for. Here is question 2.
Who owns AI here? If everyone owns it, nobody does. One accountable person keeps decisions, spend and risk in one place.
A good answer sounds like: "Our COO owns it at leadership level. She reports to the board each quarter and has a small group from operations, finance and IT behind her."
Red flags: "IT is looking at it." Several people each think the others own it. The owner has no time, budget or authority to act.
How to run it
- Send it a week ahead, so nobody gets ambushed.
- Ask the ten questions in order. Listen for the good answer and note any red flags.
- Score each question green, amber or red on the grid.
- Agree three actions before you close the item. Allow 45 to 60 minutes.
- Run it again in six months and compare the grids.
Answers to questions 2 to 6 and 10 come straight from an AI governance framework. If your team struggles with them, that is where to start.
Questions
Who should use the Board AI Briefing?
Chairs, non-executive directors, investors and leadership teams who want a clear view of how AI is used and controlled, without needing technical knowledge.
How long does it take?
Allow 45 to 60 minutes in the meeting, plus reading time for the leadership team a week before.
What do the colours on the scoring grid mean?
Green means a clear, evidenced answer. Amber means partly in place. Red means no clear answer yet. Agree actions for every red.
How often should a board run it?
Every six months, comparing the grids to see progress.