AI proposals can arrive wrapped in impressive language. A trustee board needs to translate that language into operational questions. What work changes? What risk is introduced? What does success look like?
2026 trustee AI checklist
- Which workflow? Which specific workflow or decision will this improve?
- Approved information? What information will the AI use, and is that information approved for this purpose?
- Where does data go? Where will data, prompts and outputs be stored or processed?
- Who reviews? Who reviews the output before it matters?
- What does it cost? What are the setup and running costs?
- When do we stop? What evidence would make us continue, pause or stop?
Look for a working proof
The strongest answer is usually not a slide deck. It is a small working proof with documented boundaries, test data, operator notes and a clear route into adoption if it performs well.
Make accountability visible
Boards should avoid unmanaged AI sprawl. Staff need practical tools, but the organisation still needs control over access, data flow, review points, cost and ownership.
AIFor.Wales can help boards and leadership teams frame these decisions through an AI Adoption Blueprint or a Private AI Workspace.
Want a hand working through this with your board?
We can take your trustees through the checklist against the AI you already use or are about to approve.
Contact usEmail: hello@aifor.wales
Phone: 07404 692 110