Executive brief2-minute read

The AI value framework, in brief

The answer Fund AI where it proves value, not where it is adopted.

Why it matters

AI spending is growing faster than evidence of what it delivers. Adoption numbers show who has access, not whether teaching, research, or service got better. This framework gives every AI investment the same test, so leaders can compare, fund, and stop with confidence.

What it looks like

Same test, different answers. Illustrative cases.

Staff meeting summariesSaves hours, low riskContinue Financial aid document reviewFaster, but slower for first-generation studentsImprove First-year advising chatbotPopular, but 91% accurate on policy and not fully accessibleRestrict Research literature screeningStrong, validated resultsExpand

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What it asks of leadership

Three decisions to make it work.

1Require a hypothesis and a baseline before fundingNo AI request is approved without saying what should improve, and compared with what.
2Set the bar by stakesUse the Compass review bands, so low-risk tools move quickly and student-facing ones get real scrutiny.
3Review the portfolio in the budget cycleOnce a year, look at the decisions, fund what works, and retire what doesn’t.

Go deeper

5 minutesOne-page diagramThe whole framework, printable. 5 minutesThe framework at a glanceKey ideas and distinctions. 30 minutesThe full frameworkAll sections, for those running it. 1 hourExecutive review deckPresent one use case for a decision.