Dixon Schwabl + Company Launches AI Readiness Check for Financial Sector Growth

Introducing the AI Readiness Check by Dixon Schwabl + Company

Dixon Schwabl + Company (DS+CO) has released a transformative tool, the AI Readiness Check, aimed at gauging how ready financial institutions are to adopt artificial intelligence responsibly. This innovative assessment tool was unveiled during the New York Bankers Association (NYBA) Financial Services Forum, where DS+CO Chief Transformation Officer, Malorie Benjamin, highlighted the importance of responsible AI implementation through her presentation titled "AI in Action: A Practical Guide to Building Intelligent, Trust-Driven Banking."

The AI Readiness Check was developed in collaboration with Cause + Effect Strategy and FLX AI. It allows financial executives to measure their organization’s maturity in five critical areas: strategy, risk, data, talent, and governance. By using this tool, leaders can derive customized next steps for responsible AI deployment, ensuring that their institutions are prepared for the future.

Benjamin stated, "The financial industry doesn't face a technology problem; it grapples with a trust issue. The AI Readiness Check aims to bridge this gap by giving organizations clarity on their current position and a pathway to responsible AI adoption."

This tool is built on DS+CO's comprehensive 'Four Levels of Responsible AI' framework, which includes Leadership Readiness, Design, Measurable Trust, and Strategic Alignment. By aligning culture, data, and governance, organizations can better prepare themselves before deploying any new technology.

The AI Readiness Check is accessible at aireadycheck.dixonschwabl.com. Participants receive immediate insights into their AI readiness levels as well as prioritized recommendations tailored for their specific circumstances. Additionally, aggregated and anonymized data will contribute to the upcoming report titled "State of AI Readiness in Banking," which will be released in early 2026.

As financial entities feel the pressure to expedite their AI integration, the risk of missteps increases without the proper framework in place. John Loury, President of Cause + Effect Strategy, emphasized, "This tool brings necessary structure, clarity, and governance to the fast-paced race towards AI adoption."

During her presentation at the NYBA, Benjamin underscored that leadership readiness plays a significant role beyond mere data maturity in determining the success of AI in regulated environments. "Responsible governance of AI is what makes it truly transformative," said Karla George, CEO and co-founder of FLX AI. This partnership aims to empower financial institutions to innovate confidently, fortified by data integrity and ethical design principles.

Financial professionals are encouraged to take part in the AI Readiness Check and engage in the dialogue that contributes to establishing benchmarks for the "State of AI Readiness in Banking." Progress will come as leaders begin to ask insightful questions and seek clarity in their preparation.

About Dixon Schwabl + Company

Founded in 1987 and based in Rochester, NY, Dixon Schwabl + Company is an independent creative and media agency dedicated to delivering clarity in marketing. The agency collaborates with brands to differentiate themselves and amplify their messaging, ensuring connections with target audiences.

About Cause + Effect Strategy

Cause + Effect Strategy, also located in Rochester, NY, is an established data and analytics consultancy. Recognized for its growth and innovative solutions, it transforms client data into significant impact through comprehensive data architecture and analytics services.

About FLX AI

FLX AI, launched in 2021, specializes in providing tailored artificial intelligence consulting and solutions to meet real-world industry demands. Its focus areas include generative AI and data fusion, designed to elevate efficiencies and deliver practical insights to clients.