Compare who owns implementation, support, and measurement after the initial assessment.
Quick Answer
AI Companies That Build and Stay vs Ones That Just Consult — Compare who owns implementation, support, and measurement after the initial assessment.
A consulting firm may assess operations, recommend a roadmap, and offer implementation or ongoing support depending on the engagement.
Pros
Cons
Best For
Businesses seeking outside analysis or a defined advisory engagement.
A development shop builds software or integrations to an agreed specification; maintenance may be included or contracted separately.
Pros
Cons
Best For
Businesses with a defined software build and a plan for ownership after launch.
One dedicated Ironback partner owns the roadmap and relationship; a team assesses, builds, integrates, and runs prioritized workflows.
Pros
Cons
Best For
Service business owners who want an ongoing partner for prioritized automation work.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Consulting Firm | Dev Shop | Dedicated Partner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fees | Varies by scope | Varies by scope | $8,000/month; 3-month minimum |
| Assessment | Depends on engagement | Depends on engagement | Included in month 1 |
| Build and integration | Depends on engagement | Typically project scope | Prioritized work included |
| Ongoing operations | If contracted | If contracted | Included while engaged |
| Accountability | Agree in contract | Agree in contract | Dedicated partner and team |
Frequently Asked Questions
One partner owns the roadmap and relationship, while a team builds and runs prioritized workflows. Month 1 includes an assessment and the start of the first build; timing depends on scope and access.
The retainer is $8,000 per month with a three-month minimum, then month-to-month. Third-party costs and scope are documented before work begins.
Ask who maps the workflow, builds and tests it, maintains it after launch, handles exceptions, and measures results. Compare those commitments and the total contract cost.
Head-to-Head Comparisons
See how Ironback stacks up against specific alternatives.
Related Comparisons
Neither. You need someone who builds AND stays.
The best AI partner doesn't just tell you what to do — they do it alongside you, month after month.
You don't need a team. You need one dedicated partner who knows your trade.
DIY works for one tool. Agencies work for one project. Neither covers your whole operation.
Software gives you the tools. Managed service gives you the results.
Great advice without execution is a $100K bookshelf decoration. Execution without leaving is the whole point.
Get your Operations Scorecard, then book a 20-min call. We'll assess your operations and tell you honestly whether Ironback is the right fit.