How CIOs are getting an ROI from AI

Bill Doerrfeld | November 26, 2025

My latest for CIO.com outlines a checklist for driving better returns from AI

MIT reports that 95% of genAI initiatives don't produce a successful return. BCG similarly found that only 4% create substantial value. So — how do you actually get ROI from an AI initiative?


To get to the bottom of this, I spoke with a handful of CIOs for a new feature with CIO Online, out today.


For them, achieving ROI with AI requires a mix of strong leadership stewardship upfront, shifting the talent framework, and embedding proper monitoring and governance throughout the lifecycle.


Sure, these might sound like broad strategic goals, but the experts shared some pretty actionable examples of what this looks like in practice.


A huge thank you to the executives who shared their timely perspectives with me for this one.


FYI, I'm always looking for new CIO sources to connect with for my CIO.com features. Consider signing up to my newsletter, Under The Byline for opportunities.

Read: A CIO’s 5-point checklist to drive positive AI ROI

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