10 Questions Every Business Leader Should Ask About Agentic AI
Why Agentic AI Could Be the Game-Changer You've Been Waiting For
AI has been a hot topic for a while now, but there’s a new version emerging in the space: Agentic AI. Unlike Generative AI—which focuses on creating content like text, images, and music—Agentic AI goes a step further. It doesn’t just generate, it decides. Think of it like the difference between a talented artist (Generative AI) and a personal assistant who not only creates but also plans, executes, and adapts to changing conditions without needing constant input. That’s Agentic AI.
For businesses, this means having AI systems that can identify opportunities, respond to challenges in real-time, and take action to stay ahead of the curve. Imagine an AI that fine-tunes your supply chain on the fly to cut costs and delays or one that automates customer service in a way that feels truly personalized. Not to mention the increased freedom and time for employees, who could have repetitive and menial tasks completely taken off their plate to make room for more creative and fulfilling endeavors. The potential benefits—smoother operations, increased freedom, and better reliability—are huge.
But just because a technology is exciting doesn’t mean it’s right for every business. Before jumping in, here are 10 key questions to ask:
1. What can Agentic AI actually do for our business?
Agentic AI shines in areas that require smart, adaptive decision-making. In supply chain management, for example, AI agents can adjust logistics in real-time to reduce delays and cut costs. In customer service, they can handle returns, track shipments, and solve issues without needing human approval, making support faster and more seamless.
2. How will it fit with our current systems?
For AI to work well, it needs to integrate smoothly with your existing tech stack. That means checking for compatibility, identifying any gaps, and possibly making a few upgrades. Working with AI specialists can help make the transition as smooth as possible.
3. What risks should we be aware of?
Like any new technology, Agentic AI comes with risks, such as data security, incorrect or costly decision-making, and system reliability. The good news? Setting up strong security measures, clear AI guidelines, and human-in-the-loop review processes can help keep everything in check.
4. How will this impact our employees?
AI isn’t about replacing people—it’s about helping them work smarter. While some job roles might shift, the key is upskilling employees so they can collaborate with AI rather than compete with it. When done right, AI can help teams be more agile and innovative.
5. What kind of ROI can we expect?
The potential return on investment (ROI) depends on gains in efficiency, cost savings, and revenue growth. A PwC survey found that 45% of executives believe AI will boost profitability within three years—that’s a pretty strong vote of confidence.
6. How do we make sure AI is making ethical decisions?
Setting up ethical guidelines is key. That means defining what AI can and can’t do, setting clear decision-making boundaries, and establishing guardrails and evaluation processes to monitor behavior and ensure alignment with your company’s values.
7. What kind of data does Agentic AI need?
High-quality data is the backbone of any AI system. The better the data, the better the AI performs. That means making sure your datasets are accurate, up-to-date, and well-organized. Investing in solid data management will pay off in the long run.
8. Will this scale as our business grows?
Not all AI solutions are built to scale, so it’s important to choose one that can handle increasing workloads without slowing down. Need help figuring out which option is best for your business? We’ve got you covered.
9. What compliance issues do we need to consider?
AI regulations are evolving fast, and staying compliant is paramount. Agentic AI systems often utilize internal organizational data in order to function successfully, which means there may be additional compliance concerns about your data hygiene, including governance and access control. Make sure your AI aligns with the latest regulations, data protection laws, and ethical standards to avoid legal trouble and maintain customer trust.
10. How do we measure success?
To know if Agentic AI is delivering value, you’ll need clear metrics—whether that’s cost savings, efficiency gains, revenue growth, customer satisfaction, or employee engagement. Defining key performance indicators (KPIs) upfront will help track progress.
Agentic AI has the potential to transform business operations, but success depends on making informed, strategic decisions. If you’re unsure whether it’s the right fit, our team can help you navigate the possibilities and find the best approach for your business. Let’s talk about bringing your business into the future with Agentic AI.