4 Types of AI Tools and What Makes them Different.

The integration of AI tools and models has become not just beneficial but essential for maintaining a competitive edge. These advanced technologies are reshaping how businesses operate, offering unprecedented opportunities for efficiency, innovation, and growth. This article will delve into four major models of interacting with AI, providing a comprehensive overview to help you understand how your business can strategically leverage these cutting-edge technologies, and understand the differences between them.

A significant differentiator among these models is the knowledge base—essentially, the source from which the AI derives its information and insights. This aspect is crucial because it influences the AI's ability to deliver accurate, relevant, and actionable outputs. Understanding the nuances of the knowledge base can greatly impact how effectively you can harness AI in your operations, ultimately determining the success of your AI initiatives. By grasping these concepts, you can make informed decisions that align with your business goals and drive sustainable growth.

1: Fully Customized AI Tools

Fully Customized AI Tools offer the highest level of personalization. Built from scratch, these AI bots are designed to perform unique business functions tailored specifically to your needs. The most significant advantage is the fully customizable knowledge base, allowing you to control every aspect of the information the AI uses. This model is ideal for businesses with specific, complex requirements that off-the-shelf solutions can't meet.

2: AI Customized with Tool

The second model involves using tools to build a customized AI bot that integrates seamlessly within your existing ecosystem. Platforms like Copilot Studio offer robust frameworks where you can customize the AI within the parameters set by the tool. Although the knowledge base is customizable, it is within certain predefined limits. This option provides a balance between customization and ease of implementation.  Either by partnering with a technology team like Sentry, or leveraging inhouse technology staff, your business can create a customized AI tool performs a unique business function.  We've partnered with clients to help them build AI tools that perform many businesses specific tasks saving staff hours and increasing productivity. 

3: AI Tool locked inside Platform

AI tools locked inside software platforms like Microsoft 365, HubSpot, Claude, and ChatGPT offer a more constrained but still highly functional approach. These tools are embedded within the software you use daily, or new platforms, providing AI capabilities without requiring extensive customization. However, the knowledge base customization is limited and dictated by the platform, making it less flexible but easier to deploy.

4: AI Powered Platform

AI-Powered Platforms are software solutions enhanced with AI capabilities that operate in the background. You have no access to edit or change the AI, and it works autonomously to improve the software's functionality. While this model offers no ability to customize the knowledge base, it provides seamless integration and ease of use, making it ideal for businesses looking for straightforward AI benefits without the complexity of customization.

A Word about Security

Security is a major consideration for businesses, especially in the context of integrating AI technologies. As employees experiment with AI models, a critical question arises: as they interreact with the AI the model, where does the information go? Is the information now accessible to the public, or is it securely contained within the system? These concerns highlight the importance of establishing clear parameters for safe AI use. Businesses must implement robust security protocols to ensure that sensitive data remains protected and confidential. This involves understanding the data handling practices of AI providers, setting strict access controls, and educating employees on best practices for data security. By proactively addressing these issues, businesses can confidently leverage AI technologies while safeguarding their valuable information assets.

Is my business ready for AI?

Wondering if your business is ready to embrace AI? Take our FREE Technology Maturity Model quiz to evaluate your readiness. This quiz will provide insights into your current capabilities and areas for improvement, helping you prepare for a successful AI integration.

Sentry is your guide.

Sentry is your trusted guide to navigate the complex waters of AI, offering you a steady hand as you embark on this transformative journey. With our robust foundations in Cyber Security, we ensure that your AI integration is not only innovative but also secure. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you build comprehensive AI policies and practices that safeguard your data and operations. We understand the intricacies of AI technology and are committed to guiding you through its complexities, ensuring that you can confidently explore the vast potential for innovation and the significant return on investment that AI promises. By partnering with Sentry, you gain a strategic ally who is as invested in your success as you are, ready to support you every step of the way as you harness the power of AI to propel your business forward.

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