AI-Enabled Zero-Based Optimization (AI ZBO)
A Clean-Sheet Approach to Cost and Performance
A clean sheet approach to cost and performance: rebuild the operating baseline from zero by redesigns priority workflows with targeted use of AI as part of the solution. Traditional cost programs optimize inside existing structures. AI-ZBO redesigns the work itself, shifting labor/non-labor mix, roles, controls, and cycle time.
Why AI-ZBO Works Where Traditional Cost Programs Stall
Legacy Cost-Outs Fall Short
Legacy Cost-Outs Fall Short
AI-ZBO redesigns the work itself, including roles, workflows, controls, and labor/non-labor mix.
ZBB Trapped in Assumptions
ZBB Trapped in Assumptions
AI-ZBO identifies where operational and technological complexity drives cost-to-serve, rework, cycle time, and margin leakage.
Outcome-Priced
Outcome-Priced
Outcome-based pricing structure to align incentives and deliver clear return on consulting spend.
Built for Private Equity Timelines
Built for Private Equity Timelines
Diagnostic in 3–6 weeks. Quantified improvements that deliver tangible EBITDA and cash improvement.
Our Path to AI-Enabled ZBO
Where AI Pays Off First
The biggest AI returns cluster in a handful of conditions. When these five show up in a business, the path to measurable EBITDA is shortest.
- Direct & Indirect Labor Tied to Margin
- High‑Volume Operational Transactions
- Decision‑Grade Operational Data
- Asset & Throughput Productivity
- Working Capital Release
Proof in the Numbers
EBITDA case identified in 12-week diagnostic at $1.2B multi-brand industrial platform — across 60+ prioritized AI-enabled use cases.
Cost-structure reduction realized post-implementation in clean-sheet redesign of a global consumer goods business.
Productivity uplift on targeted roles via AI-enabled automation, decision support, and reduced manual rework.
EBITDA case identified in 12-week diagnostic at $1.2B multi-brand industrial platform — across 60+ prioritized AI-enabled use cases.
Cost-structure reduction realized post-implementation in clean-sheet redesign of a global consumer goods business.
Productivity uplift on targeted roles via AI-enabled automation, decision support, and reduced manual rework.
Operators Who’ve Lived It. AI That Rebuilds It.
- Sized EBITDA opportunity across priority workflows
- Profitability transparency by customer, product, and channel
- Clean-sheet operating model for Wave 1 functions
- Prioritized initiative roadmap with quantified EBITDA impact
- Initial Roadmap and Execution Plan for Wave 1 functions
Our ZBO Leaders
