In a recent LinkedIn post, Jason Averbook argues that most organizations are misplacing their focus when it comes to Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategies. Averbook contends that the common approach is overly concentrated on acquiring new AI tools, neglecting the more critical and challenging aspects of preparing the workforce and the organization for significant change.
Averbook highlights a common pitfall: “Most AI strategies are over-focused on the easy 10%: Tools! I said all across Asia on the People Matters tour – A fool with a tool is still a fool!” This statement underscores his belief that technology alone is insufficient without the proper human and organizational readiness.
The Crucial 90%: People and Organizational Readiness
According to Averbook, the true value and difficulty lie in the remaining 90% of AI transformation, which involves preparing people and the organization to adapt and work differently. He and Jess Von Bank have developed a framework, “The 4SETS Filter for AI Transformation,” to address this. This filter prioritizes:
- Mindset
- Heartset
- Skillset
- Toolset
Averbook emphasizes that this sequence is deliberate and crucial for effective transformation. He notes that organizations achieving genuine return on investment (ROI) are not merely implementing AI tools. Instead, they are fundamentally redesigning work processes and actively guiding their employees to understand, trust, and develop the necessary competencies to collaborate effectively with AI.
The Importance of Sequence in AI Transformation
Averbook points out that many organizations struggle because they ask technology to perform tasks that require prior foundational work in human capital and organizational structure. He advocates for a more holistic approach, where the human element is addressed before or in parallel with technological adoption.
A Candid Conversation on AI Strategy
To further this discussion, Averbook, along with Jess Von Bank, is hosting a webinar on September 16th, from 1:00–2:00 PM ET. The session aims to provide a practical conversation about preparing for AI in 2027. Attendees are encouraged to bring their AI plans to explore common sticking points in workforce transformation, the significance of sequence in implementation, and areas where technology might be prematurely leveraged.
Averbook states:
“We will explore where workforce transformation gets stuck, why sequence matters, and where your organization may be asking technology to carry work that needs to happen first.”
Following the main session, a limited number of attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a private 30-minute small-group discussion with Averbook and Von Bank to get direct perspectives on their specific challenges and the path forward.
As Averbook invites participation:
“Bring your organization into the conversation. Let’s pressure-test the path forward together.”
He also encourages registration even for those unable to attend live, as slides and recordings will be shared. This initiative reflects Averbook’s commitment to guiding businesses through the complexities of AI adoption by emphasizing the indispensable role of human and organizational readiness.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Jason Averbook on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on September 10, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →