Scaling AI: Beyond the first steps to true enterprise transformation

AI is no longer a future concept – it’s already transforming industries. But while many organisations are making strides in adopting AI, the real challenge lies ahead – scaling it effectively and embedding it deeply into the enterprise.  

At our recent Transformation Leaders event, clients from across industries came together to explore this challenge, sharing practical insights on how to move beyond experimentation to true AI transformation. The discussion confirmed what our AI experts know through experience – the real challenge lies in scaling AI effectively and sustainably.

From first steps to scalable success 

The key takeaway from the event backed up our analysis. While taking the first steps in AI adoption is important, true enterprise-wide transformation demands more than just technology. It requires a joined-up approach that integrates people, processes, priorities and data to achieve lasting impact. 

Here are five key insights that can guide organisations as they move from experimenting with AI to embedding it deeply into their strategies.

1. Start small, think big

While it’s essential to start with focused, high-impact AI use cases, these early wins should lay the groundwork for long-term transformation. Case studies from organisations like Klarna and Octopus Energy, which we showcased at the event, were inspiring examples of this. For instance, Octopus has used Kraken’s generative AI tool for customer service to automate email operations equivalent to the workload of 250 full-time employees. The clear ROI made it an easy decision to scale up further. 

Starting small is sensible, but planning for scale is essential. AI should always be seen as part of a wider strategy – one that’s about transforming how the organisation works, not just solving one problem at a time.

2. Get the data right: the essential building block

AI is only as good as the data it’s built on. Without accurate, well-governed data, even the best AI models will fall short. Treating data as a strategic asset rather than a project is critical to unlocking AI’s full potential. As one panellist put it, "The data you capture today is what will fuel your AI in the future – so start laying those foundations now." 

However, our experts at the event also highlighted that success with data isn’t just about having the right technology. People, processes and governance are just as critical. Data needs to be treated as an ongoing investment, not a one-off project. 

3. Put customers at the centre of AI

AI’s true value lies in solving real problems – and that starts with the customer. Whether it’s creating hyper-personalised experiences or driving continuous improvements, the organisations that succeed with AI are those that keep the customer front and centre. Some are making initial steps away from proving value through internal/operational use cases to exploring value to the end customer. 

Brands like Monzo and Octopus Energy were highlighted as examples of how a customer-focused approach can create market disruption. By solving real problems and building trust, they’ve not only improved customer retention but also driven significant revenue growth.

4. Balance innovation with compliance

The regulatory landscape for AI is evolving rapidly and organisations must find a way to innovate while staying on the right side of compliance. Frameworks like the EU AI Act are introducing stricter requirements and panellists emphasised the importance of understanding the risks associated with data sources and AI use cases. 

Compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties. It ensures AI delivers positive outcomes for customers and society. Building organisational literacy around AI ethics and regulations will be vital for staying ahead of the curve. 

5. People drive AI transformation

As much as 60% of a knowledge worker’s tasks could be automated, but successful transformation isn’t about replacing people – it’s about enabling them. Organisations must focus on reskilling their workforce and fostering a culture of adaptability to embrace AI fully. 

Upskilling and reskilling are critical, but so too is creating a culture where employees feel empowered to experiment, learn and adapt. As one speaker noted, "It’s people – not technology – who will determine whether your AI strategy succeeds or fails." 

From automation to true AI transformation 

One of the most interesting discussions was around the distinction between automation and AI. While automation focuses on efficiency and following rules, AI is about something bigger – learning, adapting and driving strategic outcomes across the business. Organisations are increasingly using AI for pre-emptive forecasting and risk mitigation, moving away from an earlier focus on retrospective data synthesis.  

The difference between automation and AI is crucial because organisations that treat AI as just another tool for automation risk missing its transformative potential. To realise the full value of AI, it needs to be seen as a way to reimagine processes, customer experiences and even business models – with a recognition of all the resultant demands that makes of organisational transformation. 

A call to action 

The event underlined our viewpoint - the era of dabbling in AI is over. For organisations to remain competitive and relevant, they must embrace a joined-up approach – integrating data, customer-centricity, compliance and people into every step of their AI journey. Now is the time to move from experimentation to enterprise-wide transformation. At Baringa, we’ve seen first-hand how organisations succeed when they combine focused early wins with a long-term strategy. By leveraging the right tools and expertise, enterprises can take AI from experimentation to transformation. 

The good news is that the tools, frameworks and knowledge are there. By starting in a focused way but planning for scale and ensuring a strong focus on people and culture, organisations can unlock the full potential of AI and set themselves up for long-term success. 

The journey won’t be without its challenges, but organisations that embrace AI transformation today will not only future-proof their businesses but lead their industries into a new era of innovation and growth. 

Get in touch with Pete Shannon, James Bridgeman, Matt Adams or Bernice McNaught to find out more.

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