Use AI as a true sparring partner for better executive thinking
A practical method that helps leaders challenge assumptions, explore alternatives, and make stronger decisions with AI
Where the method helps
The Sparring Method helps leaders use AI not just to generate answers, but to challenge assumptions, explore alternatives, and improve decision quality.
Executive decision making
Use AI to stress-test ideas, surface blind spots, and explore stronger alternatives before committing to a decision.
Strategic thinking
Structure complex problems and use AI as a disciplined sparring partner to examine assumptions and scenarios.
Leadership development
Develop clearer thinking habits and improve how teams reason, debate, and reach decisions.
Why USe the SPARRING METHOD
The method combines structured prompts, disciplined questioning, and deliberate challenge to turn AI into a true thinking partner.
P.A.M
Structure prompts and clarify the context before engaging AI
S.P.R.I.N.G.
Use AI to pressure-test assumptions and expose weak reasoning
AI Board
Generate structured disagreement and alternative viewpoints
Reader resources
Tools to apply the method
These practical tools help readers apply the Sparring Method in real situations, from quick decision checks to structured reflection.
Minimal SPRING worksheet
A simplified version of the S.P.R.I.N.G. framework designed for rapid decision checks. This worksheet helps leaders use AI to challenge initial assumptions, surface hidden risks, and explore alternative perspectives before committing to a course of action. By structuring a short dialogue with AI around key questions, it enables a disciplined “thinking sparring session” that strengthens reasoning and highlights weak points in an argument or proposal.
Available soon — join the waitlist to receive it first.
Prompt framing checklist
Many interactions with AI fail not because of the model, but because the question is poorly framed. This checklist helps users structure prompts with clarity and context before engaging AI. It introduces the core ideas behind prompt framing in the method, including defining the managerial context, clarifying the objective, identifying assumptions, and specifying the role the AI should play. The result is more focused conversations with AI and more reliable outputs.
Available soon — join the waitlist to receive it first.
Decision memo template
A simple template designed to transform AI-supported reasoning into a clear and traceable decision. The Decision Memo helps leaders summarize the context, assumptions, alternatives considered, and the reasoning behind the final choice. It encourages disciplined thinking and creates a record that can be revisited later to evaluate outcomes and refine judgement. This tool is particularly useful when decisions involve uncertainty, multiple stakeholders, or complex trade-offs.
Available soon — join the waitlist to receive it first.
More tools will be released as the book develops
Join the waitlist to receive early materials and updates.
About Andrea
ANDREA GIGLI, PHD
Andrea Gigli is a Chief Digital Innovation and AI Officer, executive educator, and author exploring how AI can become a true sparring partner for leaders. His work focuses on helping executives think more clearly, challenge assumptions, and improve decision quality through disciplined use of AI.
Follow the development of the book and the method
Join the waitlist to receive updates, early materials, and selected tools as The Sparring Method develops.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a book about prompting?
The book is written for executives, managers, and professionals who want to use AI to improve the quality of their thinking and decision-making. It is particularly useful for leaders dealing with complex choices, strategic questions, and situations where assumptions, biases, and incomplete information can easily distort judgement.
Can the method be used in workshops or classrooms?
No. While prompts are part of the method, the book is not a manual about writing better prompts. It focuses on how AI can be used as a structured sparring partner to challenge assumptions, explore alternatives, and strengthen reasoning. Prompting is simply one tool within a broader framework for disciplined thinking with AI.
Do I need technical knowledge?
No technical background is required. The method is designed for professionals who want to use AI effectively in their work without needing to understand the underlying technology. The focus is on thinking, questioning, and decision-making — not on coding or advanced technical skills.
When will the book be available?
The book is currently in development. By joining the waitlist, you will receive updates on the progress of the project, early previews, and selected materials as they become available.
Will there be companion materials?
Yes. The book will be accompanied by practical tools designed to help readers apply the method in real situations. These may include worksheets, prompt structures, decision templates, and other resources that support disciplined use of AI in thinking and decision-making.
Can the method be used in workshops or classrooms?
Yes. The method is designed to be usable both individually and in group settings. It can support executive education programs, leadership workshops, and classroom discussions by providing structured ways to challenge ideas, generate alternative perspectives, and strengthen collective reasoning.