Advisory
Sikich Expands AI Consulting Offerings
The top 30 firm launched the Sikich AI Solutions Studio and appointed longtime firm veteran Ray Beste as principal AI strategist.
Nov. 04, 2024
Top 30 accounting firm Sikich on Nov. 4 announced it has expanded its artificial intelligence capabilities with the launch of the firm’s new Sikich AI Solutions Studio and the appointment of Ray Beste as principal AI strategist.
Building on established generative AI and data analytics strengths, the expanded AI offerings deliver innovative solutions that drive business growth and success, the Chicago-based accounting firm said.
Key elements of the Sikich AI Solutions Studio include:
- Orienteering through the AI journey: A strategic framework guiding organizations through AI adoption, addressing vision, mapping the terrain, setting the course, choosing the right tools, upskilling and training, navigating challenges, maintaining human oversight, monitoring progress, and achieving goals.
- AI and insights opportunity assessment: A methodology designed to identify AI use cases, assess return on investment potential, and highlight gaps in talent, technology, and data governance.
- AI governance model: A framework to ensure scalable, responsible AI implementation aligned with regulatory standards and organizational values.
- Expanded AI solutions development: A team dedicated to delivering customized AI tools and solutions across multiple sectors.
- AI education program: Enhanced training programs to help clients develop internal AI expertise and cultivate a culture of innovation.
- Internal AI-driven innovation: Develop and implement AI solutions to optimize the firm’s operations and deliver services more efficiently, ultimately enhancing client outcomes.
“With Sikich AI Solutions Studio, we’re building on our strong foundation in AI and data analytics to offer even more comprehensive AI services,” Sikich CEO Chris Geier said in a statement. “By centralizing our expertise, we’re well-positioned to guide our clients through every stage of their AI journey. Ray and our dedicated AI team will spearhead efforts to ensure businesses can translate AI potential into real business outcomes.
“We are committed to empowering organizations to harness the full potential of AI responsibly and effectively,” he added. “With our expanded offerings and the team’s leadership, we’ll help more businesses accelerate their AI-driven transformation.”
Beste, who has spent more than three decades at Sikich, said businesses risk missing critical opportunities to optimize operations and drive growth without a clear AI strategy.
“At Sikich AI Solutions Studio, we provide a practical roadmap to ensure AI investments deliver measurable value. Our approach goes beyond technology, embedding quality and compliance at every step to help organizations navigate a competitive landscape and achieve lasting success,” he said.
More information about the Sikich AI Solutions Studio can be found here.