← ResourcesHow to measure an AI pilot at work
A simple way to tell whether an AI tool is actually saving time before you roll it out.
Updated 10/15/2026
The short answer
Pick one task, measure how long it takes now, try the tool for two to four weeks, and measure again, including the time spent checking the output.
Worked example
Before: writing a weekly report takes 90 minutes. With AI: 40 minutes drafting plus 20 minutes checking, so 60 minutes. The real saving is 30 minutes a week, not 50, because checking counts.
What to record
Time per task before and after. Errors found during review. Whether the people doing the work would keep using it. Any cost of the tool.
Sources
NIST AI Risk Management Framework, "Measure" function. Your own before-and-after timings are the most important evidence.
Limitations
Small pilots can be noisy. Run it long enough to cover normal busy and quiet weeks.
Next step
The free career check lists your tasks with hours, which gives you a starting baseline.