The 4S Model for AI Adoption

Overview Organizations often face challenges in exploiting the opportunities of digital technologies due to a technology-­centric focus that overlooks user value. This study explores how organizations can develop artificial intelligence (AI)-based solutions from a human-centered perspective. An in-depth case study of two projects that use both design thinking and technology development to adopt AI solutions, yielded a new hybrid approach, which we call the 4S Model. The 4S Model, which combines design thinking and technology development approaches for adopting AI-based solutions, draws on the theoretical lens of microfoundations, defining (1) the process phases (storming, solving, scoping, scaling); (2) the individuals involved (designers, technology experts, users); and (3) the structure and tools required (blueprint, pilot AI solutions, façade prototyping). The 4S Model provides guidelines for organizations seeking to apply design thinking to the deployment of AI.