People Before Platform: How to Craft a Human-Centered AI Strategy

Have you ever thought, “We need to add AI to this…” but didn’t know where to begin?

You’re not alone. This kind of tech-first thinking is common among leaders of small and mid-sized businesses who know they need to enhance their software and digital products with AI, but feel stuck on where to start.

Instead of Tech-First, Try Human-First.

A successful strategy for integrating AI into your software starts with the people you serve and the pain they feel.

AI isn’t a tool you plug in. It’s a set of powerful capabilities that must be carefully matched to the problems your users actually face.

At Worthwhile, we build transformative AI strategies for our clients by first helping them identify the right AI use cases. These are focused, high-impact applications of AI that dramatically improve the human experience of using your software.

A Human-Centered Approach to AI

Our proven process can help you identify AI use cases that will drive your business forward.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Map the Current User Journey


Start by mapping how users (or internal teams) currently experience your product, service, or system. What are their Jobs to Be Done? What outcomes do they care about that also align with your business goals? Each column in the chart below is a touchpoint, which can be turned into a use case.

Step 2: Plot the Emotional Experience


Next, explore the emotional highs and lows (row two of the chart above). Where are users feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or confused? These moments point to your biggest opportunities.

Step 3: Layer in AI Capabilities


Here is where your team brainstorms how to apply current AI technologies (ex: recommendation systems, computer vision, NLP, machine learning, etc.) that could reduce friction, provide insights, or automate tedious tasks.

Step 4: Prioritize and Scope the MVP

Now it’s time to prioritize use cases based on value, effort, and feasibility. Which ones will deliver the biggest impact if we apply the right AI capability? Where can you achieve the most meaningful results with manageable effort?

This process shapes a clear, testable MVP by seamlessly integrating AI capabilities into your user’s workflow where it matters most.

We’ve applied this process across various industries and business models. It scales whether you're launching your first AI pilot or enhancing a mature product.

For more information, visit the Human Centered AI Institute: www.hcaiinstitute.com

Let’s Build the Right Strategy Together

If you’re ready to discover how AI can accelerate your business, we’d love to help you develop your AI strategy.

Reach out to today.