By Steve Brown, Fluid One
As AI adoption accelerates, organisations must decide how best to incorporate it into their strategy. This guide explores key considerations: cost, speed, and data privacy, when choosing between off-the-shelf and custom AI.
Off-the-shelf AI
These pre-built tools from third-party vendors solve common problems. They’re quick to deploy, cost-effective, and easy to use, especially for teams without deep AI expertise.
Cost-Effective - Lower upfront costs; shared development expenses.
Quick Deployment - Pre-trained models mean faster implementation.
User-Friendly - Minimal expertise needed.
Vendor Support - Ongoing updates, tools, and documentation.
Example: Microsoft 365 Copilot
Copilot integrates AI into Word, Outlook, Excel, Teams, and more – helping users write emails, create presentations, and summarise meetings securely. For example, in Teams, it can transcribe and summarise meetings automatically. However, businesses must manage file access carefully to avoid data leaks.
Agentic AI: A Step Further
Agentic AI refers to autonomous systems trained for specific tasks. Platforms like Copilot Studio allow businesses to build their own agents, combining off-the-shelf simplicity with tailored capabilities – ideal for automating HR, finance, or CRM processes.
Custom AI
Custom AI involves building or fine-tuning models to suit unique business needs. While resource-intensive, it offers greater control and strategic value.
Customisation - Tailored to your specific use case.
Data Control - Keeps sensitive data in-house.
Competitive - Edge Can be a proprietary asset.
Time & Cost Requires significant investment in development. Custom AI is ideal for companies with complex workflows, integration needs, or strict compliance requirements.
How to Choose
Ask yourself:
Are your needs generic or unique?
What’s your timeline and budget?
Do you manage regulated data?
Will your requirements evolve?
Best Practices
Secure leadership buy-in
Start small with a proof of concept
Involve cross-functional teams
Provide training and change support
Measure success with clear KPIs
Conclusion
Off-the-shelf AI offers speed and simplicity, while custom AI brings control and competitive advantage. The right choice depends on your business goals, data needs, and resources.
As a Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider, we support both Microsoft 365 Copilot adoption and custom AI development through our in-house Data & AI team.
For more information, you can reach us through our website at info.fluidone.com/lp/it-transformation-consulation, call us at 0114 292 3800 or email sheffieldenquiries@fluidone.com to get in touch with our experts today to find out how we can help empower your business.
