This study aims to explore the specific challenges that organizations encounter during the early stages of AI adoption and to identify the strategic management tools they use to address these challenges.

The research employs a qualitative methodology, combining a literature review with interviews involving representatives of Swiss organizations, as well as a single-case study. The case examines how an international organization tackles early-stage AI adoption challenges within its core business process using strategic management tools. As a result, the study compiles a list of key challenges and the strategic tools the organization applies to overcome them. This list is further supplemented with alternative tools identified through literature review that could also be effective in addressing the same challenges.

The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how companies experience and manage difficulties during early-stage AI adoption and offer practical insights into alternative tools grounded in academic research.