Integrating AI into strategic planning for a successful digital transformation. Insights from industry use cases

Purpose The potential of artificial intelligence (AI) is entering the strategic thinking and operations of both public and private companies, with an impact on performance, cost structure and people. At the same time, companies need organic, AI-driven plans aligned with their capabilities and business goals to successfully guide their digital transformation. This study aims to examine the significance of strategic planning in developing AI-driven digital transformation, considering the implications of data collection and the use of specific technological platforms. Design/methodology/approach The paper applies a qualitative methodology to investigate the AI-driven digital transformation strategy. It progresses from the particular to the general, attempting to derive meanings from the dataset collected to identify patterns and relationships, and then generalising those patterns and relationships. Nine AI-driven digital transformation projects are analysed according to the Data Benefit Index (DBI), based on three variables: (1) data consumption, (2) business value and (3) effort. Findings The study examines the level of maturity with which AI and data potential are being leveraged across various industries. A replicable scoring rubric is provided to reduce subjectivity by quantifying each driver’s impact on data consumption, business value and effort. Scores distinguish between low (<10%), moderate (10%–50%) and transformational (>50%) returns, enabling project evaluation, AI-driven digital transformation, strategic planning, DBI, business value, data-driven strategy. Creating value from data and AI is a complex task, mainly due to the difficulty of aligning business objectives with AI-driven digital transformation. The DBI framework captures this. Originality/value This paper delivers a tangible managerial impact by combining managerial contributions with a knowledge-based theoretical perspective at the intersection of strategic planning and AI. It systematises a structured method grounded in the DBI model, suggesting helpful criteria for planning, implementing and evaluating AI and data-driven strategies. By linking theory with managerial decision-making, the study offers concrete guidance for organisations aiming to integrate AI into strategic processes in a rigorous and replicable manner.