AI Implementation Decision Guide
A structured methodology to evaluate and select the right AI implementation type for your specific product needs.
Key Assessment Questions
Consider these questions in the context of your specific use case.
Who initiates the action?
Determine if your AI product should be user-initiated or system-initiated.
Options to Consider:
May be better suited for tools or copilots where user control is paramount.
May be better suited for workflows and agents where automation is the priority.
How predictable is the process?
Assess the predictability of the tasks you want to automate.
Options to Consider:
Well-suited for workflows with defined steps.
May require copilots or agents with more flexibility.
Where does the AI operate?
Consider where in the user workflow the AI appears.
Options to Consider:
Tools or copilots that users explicitly invoke.
Workflows or infrastructure integrated into existing processes.
Agents or infrastructure that work autonomously.
What's the level of autonomy needed?
Determine how much independence the AI should have.
Options to Consider:
Tools that make suggestions for human approval.
Workflows or copilots with human oversight.
Agents or infrastructure that can operate independently.
AI Type Recommendations
Based on your answers to the assessment questions, here's when each AI type is most appropriate.
Tools
Best For:
- User-initiated actions
- Specific, focused tasks
- Situations requiring high control
- Quick implementation needs
Workflows
Best For:
- Predictable multi-step processes
- Defined business processes
- Medium autonomy requirements
- When connecting existing systems
Copilots
Best For:
- Collaborative work
- Complex knowledge tasks
- Situations requiring iterative refinement
- When human judgment remains essential
Agents
Best For:
- Autonomous operation
- Complex decision-making
- Adaptable problem-solving
- When high independence is acceptable
Infrastructure
Best For:
- Foundation for other AI capabilities
- Enterprise-wide deployment
- Strategic long-term investments
- When building a platform
Next Steps
Once you've identified the most appropriate AI implementation type, consider these next steps:
Review Detailed Type Guide
Explore our detailed guide for your selected AI type to understand implementation considerations.
View AI TypesUse Implementation Guide
Follow our step-by-step implementation guide to plan your AI product development.
View Implementation GuideExplore Case Studies
Learn from organizations that have successfully implemented similar AI approaches.
View Case Studies