Guide
Does Your Company Need AI? A Short Checklist for UK Firms
Your company probably needs AI if people repeat the same tasks every week, if customers wait for replies, or if data is keyed in twice. It probably does not need it if the work is rare, varied and judgement heavy. Six questions below will tell you which side you are on.
What are the six questions?
Answer yes or no to each.
- 1
Does someone on your team repeat the same task several times a week?
- 2
Do enquiries or calls go unanswered at busy or out of hours times?
- 3
Do you type the same information into more than one system?
- 4
Does a slow reply cost you work or goodwill?
- 5
Is the task written down, or could you write it down in a page?
- 6
Is the information it uses stored in a system, not only on paper or in someone's head?
What do my answers mean?
Four or more yes
AI is likely to help. Pick the task with the most hours and start there.
Two or three yes
There is something to automate, but check the basics first. Write down the process and tidy the data.
One or none
You may not need AI yet. Better systems or simple rules may be enough.
This is a quick test, not a verdict. Your own mix of tasks matters more than the count.
What if I say yes?
Estimate what the task costs you. Our Employee Cost and Staff Time Calculator turns hours into pounds. Then compare that with the cost of fixing it.
For a fuller picture, take our free AI Readiness Assessment. It has 12 questions and scores you on data, process, people and governance. You also get a 90 day plan.
If you want a plan before you spend, see AI strategy consulting.
What if I say no?
That is a good result. Not every business needs AI now. Revisit the questions in six months, or when you take on staff or customers faster than you can serve them.
Small firms can start with AI consulting for small businesses.
What are the common reasons to hold back?
The process is not written down
Fix that first.
The data is scattered
Tidy it before you automate.
Staff are worried
Explain that the aim is to take over tasks, not jobs, and involve them early.
You are unsure about rules
Start with a short policy. See our AI adoption guide for UK SMEs.
Common questions
Is AI only for big companies?
No. Small firms often gain more, because one person's hours matter more.
Do I need a lot of data?
Not for most automation. You need your tasks to be clear and your information to be in a system.
How much does it cost?
It depends on the job. We scope it on a call.
Will my staff lose their jobs?
Our aim is to take over repeat tasks so people can do work that needs them.
What is the first step?
Take the assessment, or book a call.
How HAeX can help
Talk it through with us. We will say plainly whether AI fits, and what to do first. See AI Consultancy.
Talk through your answers
The first call is free. We say plainly whether AI fits, and what to do first.