Persistent and IIM Ahmedabad Launch Framework to Measure Enterprise AI Returns
Persistent Systems and the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad have introduced the "AI Value Compass," a decision framework designed to help enterprises measure and scale AI investments with concrete business outcomes. The framework addresses a core problem: most organizations struggle to move beyond isolated AI pilots to company-wide implementation.
The research identifies organizational and operational barriers as the primary obstacles to AI success, not technological limitations. Many enterprises lack clear AI leadership, coherent strategy, defined success metrics, and governance structures needed to extract long-term value from AI investments.
Five Dimensions of AI Readiness
The framework evaluates AI initiatives across five areas:
- Business alignment
- People readiness
- Operational integration
- Data preparedness
- Risk and governance
This approach differs from technology-focused assessments by examining AI through an enterprise operating model lens. Leaders can identify readiness gaps early, prioritize initiatives based on objective criteria, and strengthen foundational capabilities before scaling.
What the Framework Enables
Organizations using the AI Value Compass can strengthen data, operational, and governance foundations while improving adoption readiness across teams and stakeholders. The framework increases predictability and consistency in AI-driven business outcomes.
Jaideep Vijay Dhok, Chief Operating Officer of Technology at Persistent, said the framework provides clarity as organizations advance in their AI journeys. "The need for structured approaches to assess readiness, sequence initiatives and align AI efforts with business priorities is becoming more important," he said.
Ankur Sinha, Professor of Operations and Decision Sciences at IIM Ahmedabad, said most businesses continue to focus on localized efficiency gains rather than strategic transformation. "The AI Value Compass enables enterprises to address these gaps and drive more consistent, outcome-led AI adoption," he said.
Real-World Application
Persistent is already applying the framework in client engagements. The company plans to extend the collaboration with IIM Ahmedabad into knowledge exchange, talent development, and applied research.
The research reflects a broader shift in enterprise AI strategy. As organizations scale Generative AI and Agentic AI initiatives beyond early pilots, the focus has moved from capability-building to measurable business impact. The framework provides the structure many organizations lack to make that transition.
For management and technical professionals evaluating AI investments, understanding these five readiness dimensions offers a practical starting point. Organizations that assess themselves across these areas before committing resources are more likely to see sustained returns on their AI spending.
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