BLTF 2026 Video – “What's the Hardest Truth About AI ROI that Firms Aren't Ready to Hear Yet?”

Why It Matters

Without process redesign, measurement and governance, firms will face higher upfront costs, erosion of intellectual capital and pricing pressure, undermining profitability and competitive position. Getting operating models and adoption strategies right is therefore critical to realizing durable AI returns.

Summary

Speakers argue the hardest truth about AI ROI is that technology alone doesn’t create value—firms must redesign processes, measure how workflows change, and embed governance to demonstrate real savings. Many firms underestimate the full costs: software, integration, training, slower initial productivity and ongoing maintenance. Clients also fear commoditization if firms disclose AI use, while accuracy limits and dispersed knowledge create legal and operational risks. Executives must rethink operating models, roles and data ownership to capture sustainable ROI rather than treating AI as a plug-and-play efficiency boost.