Why is developing an Al strategy NOT the first step in the Al Transformation Playbook?

Without having some practical Al experience and knowing what it feels like to build an Al project, a company usually does not know enough to formulate a sound strategy.

There is no reason. Developing an Al strategy IS the first step in the Al Transformation Playbook.

The strategy should be to use the Virtuous Circle of $A1,$ which comes after building a product.

When transforming a company into an Al company, one does not need a strategy, therefore it can't be the first step.