Measuring AI automation ROI

Short answer: ROI = (value of time and errors saved per month − monthly run cost) ÷ build cost. Payback is build cost divided by the monthly net saving.

1. Measure the manual baseline

Count how many times the task happens each month, how long it takes, and the loaded hourly cost of the person doing it.

2. Estimate the saving

Multiply hours saved by hourly cost. Add the cost of errors, rework and delays that the automation removes.

3. Subtract running costs

Include model or API usage, hosting and a little maintenance time each month.

4. Compare with the build cost

Divide the build cost by the monthly net saving to get the payback period. Prefer processes that are frequent, rule-based and high volume.

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