Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a future-facing trend—it’s a competitive necessity. From automation to predictive analytics, AI is fundamentally reshaping how companies operate, optimize, and outperform. But before adopting any new AI-powered solution, it’s critical to pause and ask the right strategic questions.
At RealtyAds, we’ve supported thousands of commercial real estate professionals in scaling their digital presence using AI. Based on that experience, here are seven questions every business leader should be asking when evaluating AI solutions.
What business problem are we solving with AI?
Start with clarity. AI should address a defined challenge, not just serve as a buzzword. Are you trying to improve targeted outreach, reduce manual work, or enhance decision-making through better data? Companies that align their AI initiatives with core business priorities are significantly more likely to see a positive impact. According to McKinsey & Company, organizations that tie AI to specific business goals are 2.3x more likely to generate measurable value.
Do we have the data to support this initiative?
AI is only as strong as the data behind it. Before investing in tools or platforms, assess your current data quality and infrastructure. Do you have clean, structured, and relevant data to train and inform models? If not, that’s the first problem to solve. Gartner found that up to 85% of AI project failures are attributed to poor data management, rather than flawed algorithms.
How will this integrate with current workflows?
The best AI doesn’t disrupt—it enhances. Any AI solution should integrate smoothly into your existing tech stack, from CRMs and marketing platforms to internal dashboards. Seamless integration reduces friction, increases adoption, and ensures your team actually uses the tool. If AI sits outside your core processes, it won’t deliver the impact you’re looking for.
What risks need to be addressed—ethical, financial, operational?
AI brings potential but also risk. Think critically about data privacy, algorithmic bias, automation limits, and compliance. Building in governance early is key. A Deloitte survey found that 70% of AI adopters have concerns about ethical or reputational exposure, especially in areas like customer targeting or automated decision-making. Trust and transparency must be part of your AI strategy.
Who owns this initiative internally?
AI isn’t a “set it and forget it” solution. Someone needs to own the rollout, training, and iteration—whether it’s a data lead, marketing director, or operations manager. Without clear ownership, even the best tools underperform. Make accountability part of the implementation plan.
How will we measure success?
Start with KPIs. Whether you’re looking to reduce manual hours, increase conversion rates, or improve audience targeting, define what success looks like up front. If you don’t have measurable outcomes, it’s difficult to justify the cost or understand what’s working. PwC notes that AI can unlock significant ROI, but only for organizations that apply a disciplined measurement approach.
Are we prepared for change management?
AI adoption changes how people work. Training, enablement, and internal buy-in are just as important as the tech itself. The faster your team can adopt the tool—and understand how it helps them—the faster you’ll see returns. Align your rollout plan with a clear communications and onboarding strategy.
Final Thought: AI Is a Tool—Strategy Is the Advantage
AI has the power to transform your leasing, marketing, and operational efficiency. But without a clear business case, strong data, and internal alignment, even the most advanced solutions can fall flat. At RealtyAds, we’ve built our platform to remove the guesswork. With AI designed specifically for commercial real estate, we help you do more with less—target smarter, act faster, and lease space with confidence.
Want to see how AI can accelerate your leasing strategy? Let’s talk.
RealtyAds is helping commercial real estate find, advance, and close more deals by engaging decision-makers and their representation on the world’s most effective customer acquisition channels. For more information, visit RealtyAds.com and follow RealtyAds on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
