AI Readiness Checklist — Bennie Williams

Check each item honestly. The more boxes you tick, the smoother your AI implementation will go. If you can check 8 or more of these 15 items, you're in good shape to start.

Data

1. Your business data is in digital systems

Customer records, financial data, inventory — stored in software, not filing cabinets.

2. Your data is reasonably organized

You can find what you need without digging through years of disorganized files.

3. You know where your data lives

You can name the specific tools and systems where your important data is stored.

4. Your data is accessible

You can export or share your data with other tools. It's not locked inside a system.

5. You have enough data to work with

For the problem you want to solve, you have meaningful records (100+ records, 12+ months, etc.)

Processes

6. You have documented workflows

Your team knows the steps for key processes — even if the documentation is a simple checklist.

7. You can identify repetitive tasks

You know which tasks your team spends the most time on that follow a predictable pattern.

8. You have a clear problem to solve

You're not adopting AI because it's trendy — you have a specific bottleneck or opportunity.

Team

9. At least one person is willing to learn

You don't need an AI expert. You need one person who's curious and willing to spend time learning.

10. Your team is open to change

The people who will use AI tools are willing to try new approaches — or at least not actively resistant.

11. You have someone who can manage the implementation

Whether it's you, a team member, or an external partner — someone will own the project.

Budget

12. You can allocate $200-500/month for AI tools

Most AI tools cost $20-200/month. You don't need a massive budget, but you need some.

13. You can invest 10-20 hours in setup

AI implementation takes time upfront — configuring tools, testing workflows, training your team.

14. You're willing to invest in training

Whether it's a course, a coach, or self-directed learning — your team needs to learn the tools.

15. You have realistic ROI expectations

You understand that AI saves time and money over weeks and months, not overnight.

Your Score

12-15 items checked: You're ready to implement AI now. Book a call to identify the highest-impact opportunity.

8-11 items checked: You're close. Focus on the unchecked items in the next 30 days.

4-7 items checked: You have foundational work to do first. Prioritize data organization and process documentation.

0-3 items checked: Start with the basics: get your data into digital systems and document your core processes.