Research
Mapping third-party AI exposure
Organizations increasingly consume AI through existing software providers. That makes third-party visibility a core part of the AI operating model.
AI arrives through ordinary software
A vendor may introduce summarization, scoring, recommendation or automated decision features through a routine product update. These capabilities can affect data flows and business decisions even when no separate AI tool was procured.
Procurement records alone therefore provide an incomplete view of third-party AI exposure.
Map dependencies, not just vendors
The relevant question is how a business process depends on the vendor’s AI-enabled function. Organizations should record the data involved, the outputs consumed, the ability to apply human oversight and the consequences of service or model changes.
Integrate vendor review
Third-party AI review should connect procurement, security, privacy and governance evidence. A shared record reduces duplicate questionnaires while preserving a clear view of operational risk.