Understanding Strategic Sensemaking of Managers in Artificial Intelligence Driven Organizational Decision Making

Abstract

The transformation of artificial intelligence (AI) in organizational decision-making demands that managers understand, interpret, and strategically integrate algorithmic information to keep decisions accountable. This study aims to analyze the manager's strategic sensemaking process in AI-based decision-making, focusing on the relationship between data interpretation, human considerations, and the quality of organizational decisions. The study used a descriptive qualitative approach through semi-structured interviews with 18 managers from companies who had applied AI in managerial functions. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify patterns of meaning, interpretation strategies, and implementation challenges. The results show that strategic sensemaking is formed through a combination of data literacy, managerial experience, cross-functional collaboration, and ethical evaluation of AI recommendations. In conclusion, this study confirms that AI does not replace the role of managers, but rather expands decision-making capacity through the integration of strategic reasoning, technology, and organizational responsibility