Document Type

Article

Publication Title

ISRG Journal of Economics and Finance

Abstract

The accelerating digitization of executive decision-making has prompted critical re-examination of the function and value of traditional boards of directors within corporate and educational institutions. Empirical research consistently reveals that human boards, while ostensibly tasked with strategic insight and fiduciary oversight, are frequently constrained by structural inefficiencies—such as director overcommitment, inflated compensation, and persistent conflicts of interest—that undermine organizational performance. Against this backdrop, the integration of Artificial Intelligence agents, either as analytic adjuncts or autonomous decision-makers, emerges as a plausible avenue for enhancing board effectiveness. This article synthesizes global case studies, peer-reviewed findings, and real-time technological developments to critically evaluate the financial feasibility and governance efficacy of AI-assisted and hybrid boards. It examines the comparative advantages of AI in terms of vigilance, objectivity, cost reduction, and risk management, while also addressing the enduring symbolic and reputational functions uniquely served by human directors. The results underscore that the technology can mitigate well-documented governance failures, streamline decision processes, and elevate financial performance, suggesting that hybrid human-AI boards represent a viable and potentially superior paradigm for future institutional oversight.

Publication Date

9-2025

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