Hey Devin,

We're constantly being told to find ways to integrate AI into our workflows, but I don’t think that should be the first step in our strategy. AI can’t fix bad data or make up for the lack of solid processes. If the foundation isn’t there, AI won’t get us very far.

So how do you handle the constant back-and-forth — the pressure to implement new tools when there’s no clear plan or strategy in place? It’s even more frustrating when that pressure comes from within the comms team or directly from leadership. It starts to feel like… what strategy? What plan?

Sincerely,
The Ping-Pong Partner

Question

Hey Devin, 

We're constantly being told to find ways to integrate AI into our workflows, but I don’t think that should be the first step in our strategy. AI can’t fix bad data or make up for the lack of solid processes. If the foundation isn’t there, AI won’t get us very far.

So how do you handle the constant back-and-forth — the pressure to implement new tools when there’s no clear plan or strategy in place? It’s even more frustrating when that pressure comes from within the comms team or directly from leadership. It starts to feel like… what strategy? What plan?

Sincerely,
The Ping-Pong Partner

Devin Owens · Accepted Answer

Hey Ping-Pong Partner! First of all, thank you for fully leaning into all the nostalgic advice-column vibes. You got me smiling before I even got to the question!
And second: you’re absolutely right. AI can’t fix broken processes, unclear strategies, or messy data. Without some structure underneath it, all that pressure to “just use AI” can feel more frustrating than helpful — especially when it’s coming from inside your own team.
One way to shift the conversation is to propose a lightweight AI policy and roadmap. Don’t worry! It doesn’t have to be a huge lift. Just a short doc that outlines your team’s approach: what tools you’re open to using, what kind of data is (or isn’t) okay to include, what good outputs look like, and when transparency around AI use is important. That small step can give your team clarity and confidence, and help reset expectations with leadership. You can start with this free template!
From there, treat it like any other rollout. AI is still new for a lot of people, and not everyone is starting from the same place. Consider low-pressure education moments like a lunch & learn, a quick demo session, or informal office hours where people can see how tools work and ask questions without feeling behind.
When you’re ready to integrate AI into your workflow, start small:


 	
Drafting FAQs for an upcoming change

 	
Brainstorming names or themes for events or newsletters

 	
Summarizing long documents or All Hands recaps

 	
Creating content variations for different employee groups


Use early, low-risk wins to build shared understanding and confidence. Then expand from there, with process and intention leading the way.
Give this a try and please follow up with me in a few weeks, I’d love to hear how it’s all going!

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