Free Excel Tool

The AI Litmus Test Calculator

A strategic decision-support tool to evaluate AI vs. traditional approaches for your software project.

Make data-driven technology decisions with confidence. Evaluate your project across 5 pillars and get a risk-adjusted recommendation.

Download the Calculator

Smart Technology Decisions Start Here

What the Calculator Does:

  • Helps teams choose between AI-powered or traditional approaches.
  • Evaluates projects against 5 pillars with customizable weights.
  • Produces risk-adjusted recommendations with visual analytics.

Five Pillars

Problem-Solution Fit Data Readiness Business Impact Technical Feasibility Risk & Compliance

How It Works

Not sure if your next software project should lean on AI or stick to tried-and-true methods? Stop guessing.

The AI Litmus Test Calculator turns debate into data—so your team can move forward with clarity, alignment, and speed.

Six simple steps to get your strategic technology recommendation.

Open Scoring Engine

Access the customizable scoring interface.

Step 1

Set Criterion Weights

Tell the model what matters most.

Step 2

Score Both Approaches

Rate AI vs. Traditional for each criterion.

Step 3

Assess Risk

Evaluate likelihood and impact of risks.

Step 4

Enter Risk Scores

Input the overall risk score for each path.

Step 5

Review Results

See the winner - and why.

Step 6

Risk-Adjusted Scoring

We factor in real-world execution risks using a simple, transparent model.

How Risk Scores Work

For both the AI and Traditional paths, determine an Overall Risk Score between 1 (minimal risk) and 25 (extreme risk).

This is typically done using a standard risk matrix where you multiply the Likelihood of a risk occurring (1–5) by its potential Impact (1–5).

  • Likelihood: Probability a risk occurs.
  • Impact: Severity if it does.
Risk Formula
Risk Score = Likelihood × Impact

Comprehensive Analytics Dashboard

Final risk-adjusted scores, an executive recommendation, and visual comparisons (bar + radar).

Risk-Adjusted Scores

Compare AI vs. Traditional after risk

Executive Recommendation

Clear guidance on best path

Visual Analytics

Bar & radar charts show strengths

Understanding Your Results

Strongly Recommend AI

High confidence in AI with acceptable risk.

Strongly Recommend Traditional

Traditional approach shows clear advantages.

Consider Hybrid Approach

Combine elements from both paths.

Red Flag / Re-evaluate Project

Scores suggest pausing to reassess.

Start Making Smarter Decisions Today

Use the AI Litmus Test to align stakeholders and choose the best path for your software project.

Download the AI Litmus Test Calculator