"The thinking backward methodology completely changed how I approach AI implementation. Instead of chasing every new model, I now start with clear business outcomes."
Sarah Chen
TechStartup Inc.
Thinking Backward Academy
Three programs designed for leaders, teams, and individuals ready to think differently about artificial intelligence.
Limited enrollment • Next cohort forming
Three Programs. One Philosophy.
Start with your ideal outcome and work backward to build AI solutions that matter.
Self-Paced
AI Fundamentals
Master AI concepts and applications. Build fluency in artificial intelligence for strategic decision-making.
DurationSelf-paced
Investment$499
FormatOnline
On-Site
Enterprise AI
Complete organizational AI transformation. Implementation, change management, and cultural adoption.
Duration6 weeks
InvestmentCustom
FormatOn-site
Intensive
AI Strategy Sprint
Rapid AI strategy development for product teams. Build AI-first solutions with clear competitive advantage.
Duration2 weeks
Investment$8,000
FormatIntensive
Why Think Backward?
Most AI implementations fail because they start with the technology. We start with the outcome you actually want and work backward to choose the right tools.
01. Define Success
Start with a crystal-clear vision of your ideal outcome. What does success actually look like?
02. Map Dependencies
Identify what must be true for success to happen. Work backward through each requirement.
03. Choose Tools
Select AI capabilities that serve your specific vision. Technology follows strategy, not the reverse.
04. Build & Validate
Execute systematically with continuous validation against your original success criteria.
The Conventional Approach Fails
Most organizations start with "What can AI do for us?" and end up with impressive technology that nobody uses. We ask: "What outcome do we actually need?" and work backward to the right solution.
Purpose-Driven
Every capability serves a specific outcome
Resource Efficient
Build only what creates real value
User Adoption
Solutions people actually want to use
What Our Students Are Saying
Join leaders who've transformed their approach to AI through our thinking backward methodology.
"Derek's AI Fundamentals course gave me the confidence to lead our AI strategy. The prompt engineering frameworks alone paid for the entire program."
Marcus Johnson
Fortune 500 Corp
"Finally, an AI course that focuses on practical application rather than just theory. I built three working prototypes during the Enterprise AI program."
Elena Rodriguez
Digital Agency
"The AI Strategy Sprint helped our team go from concept to working prototype in just two weeks. The thinking backward approach eliminated months of trial and error."
David Kim
Healthcare Innovations
"I've taken many AI courses, but this is the first one that taught me to think strategically about implementation. The ROI was immediate."
Rachel Thompson
EdTech Solutions
"The 'thinking backward' methodology isn't just for AI—it's transformed how I approach every business problem. Brilliant course design."
Ahmad Hassan
Financial Services
"Derek challenges every conventional approach to AI. His courses are perfect for leaders who want to build solutions that actually work."
Jennifer Liu
Manufacturing Co.
"The Enterprise AI transformation program delivered exactly what was promised: a clear roadmap, trained team, and measurable results."
Michael O'Connor
Consulting Group
"Best investment I've made in my career. The AI Fundamentals course gave me the vocabulary and confidence to lead AI initiatives."
Priya Patel
Product Design Studio
"Derek's approach to AI education is refreshingly practical. No hype, no buzzwords—just actionable strategies that work."
Thomas Anderson
Innovation Labs
"The thinking backward methodology helped us avoid costly AI pilot programs that go nowhere. We now build with clear purpose."
Maria Gonzalez
Retail Tech
"From confused about AI to leading our company's AI transformation in just 6 weeks. The Enterprise program is worth every penny."
James Wilson
Data Analytics Inc.
"The thinking backward methodology completely changed how I approach AI implementation. Instead of chasing every new model, I now start with clear business outcomes."
Sarah Chen
TechStartup Inc.
"Derek's AI Fundamentals course gave me the confidence to lead our AI strategy. The prompt engineering frameworks alone paid for the entire program."
Marcus Johnson
Fortune 500 Corp
"Finally, an AI course that focuses on practical application rather than just theory. I built three working prototypes during the Enterprise AI program."
Elena Rodriguez
Digital Agency
"The AI Strategy Sprint helped our team go from concept to working prototype in just two weeks. The thinking backward approach eliminated months of trial and error."
David Kim
Healthcare Innovations
"I've taken many AI courses, but this is the first one that taught me to think strategically about implementation. The ROI was immediate."
Rachel Thompson
EdTech Solutions
"The 'thinking backward' methodology isn't just for AI—it's transformed how I approach every business problem. Brilliant course design."
Ahmad Hassan
Financial Services
"Derek challenges every conventional approach to AI. His courses are perfect for leaders who want to build solutions that actually work."
Jennifer Liu
Manufacturing Co.
"The Enterprise AI transformation program delivered exactly what was promised: a clear roadmap, trained team, and measurable results."
Michael O'Connor
Consulting Group
"Best investment I've made in my career. The AI Fundamentals course gave me the vocabulary and confidence to lead AI initiatives."
Priya Patel
Product Design Studio
"Derek's approach to AI education is refreshingly practical. No hype, no buzzwords—just actionable strategies that work."
Thomas Anderson
Innovation Labs
"The thinking backward methodology helped us avoid costly AI pilot programs that go nowhere. We now build with clear purpose."
Maria Gonzalez
Retail Tech
"From confused about AI to leading our company's AI transformation in just 6 weeks. The Enterprise program is worth every penny."
James Wilson
Data Analytics Inc.
Ready to Think Backward?
Join leaders who challenge conventional AI approaches to build solutions that create real competitive advantage.
Programs from $499 to $10,000