This, Katie says, requires moving beyond static questionnaires to implement early warning mechanisms, verify critical data and ensure alignment between procurement, legal and IT teams.
Separating AI reality from marketing hype With virtually every software provider claiming to possess AI capabilities, Katie offers practical criteria for distinguishing genuine AI-driven tools from marketing spin:“ Everyone is saying their software is AI-powered right now. The reality is that most tools are just automated workflows with a bit of data logic behind them.”
Real AI, she argues, should drive human interaction and informed decision-making.
Katie adds:“ In my head, if it doesn’ t improve accuracy, reduce time or uncover a risk that you wouldn’ t have noticed before, it’ s not particularly valuable. It just creates noise.”
Genuine AI tools should be adaptive, learning from user behaviour and flagging issues before they occur, while also requiring human oversight.
Crucially, they should be transparent about how risk scores and recommendations are generated to prevent abuse.
90 September 2025