If you are a tech company or individual looking to either implement AI in your business or simply build something cool, your'e likely facing this dilemma. The choice between buying a pre-built AI solution and building one from scratch can be complex.
In this blog, we delve into a comparative analysis of both approaches to understand their distinct advantages.
Building an AI model in 2025
To build an AI model in 2025 you must first define the problem your model should address and the goals it should achieve to verify that the problem has been solved. Then proceed to gather relevant datasets. Choose the right web tools and frameworks. Iterate through modeling, training and evaluation the model. then finally deploy, integrate and maintain of model.
Pros
- Customization: A custom built AI model is more likely to specifically fit the business niche both during startup and flexibly adapt as the business grows and changes.
- Independence: Open AI and Anthropic are continuously facing increased service outages due to high volume of user requests. Having a custom model ensures that you are not limited by such occurrences.
- Scalability and long term cost saving: Although more expensive initially, custom-built solutions can be more cost-efficient at scale.
- Investment: A startup that builds software on their own AI model stands a higher chance of drawing investment as it demonstrates unique value propositions, strategic advantages, and long-term potential.
- Knowledge and capability building: Developing custom AI models can enhance the organization's technical capabilities and knowledge base, which are valuable assets for future projects.
Buying an AI model in 2025
If you're looking to buy an AI model in 2025, first research the available models and consider whether any model fits your needs and objectives, then assess the costs, both short-term and long-term, consider the model that is well documented, test it in areas like implementation and security, Carefully look through each of the terms and conditions and once all the boxes are checked, proceed to use the model.
Pros
- Time: This is the biggest advantage of using a pre-built AI model. It enables companies with even small low-experienced individuals to quickly develop cutting-edge solutions and beat competitors to market.
- Access to advanced solutions: Using an already built AI model gives you access to advanced features without having to reinvent the wheel.
- Initial cost: You can save the upfront cost of initial development by using an already existing model.
- Support and maintenance: With purchased AI models, ongoing support and maintenance are often included in the service agreement ensuring you can talk to a professional, should there arise an issue.
- Reduced risk of errors: Pre-built solutions have been tested and proven, reducing the risk of errors and the trial-and-error associated with custom development that most times doesn't yield a functioning product.
What should you do?
The short answer is ... It depends on the approach that gives you the most advantages. First take a step back, sit down and evaluate, ask questions like:
- Does my team have the skill and know how to build, train, test, deploy and maintain an AI model? Can I get my team there fast enough?
- Do I have access to the necessary training data for the model? If not can i get this data?
- Do my timelines allow me to beat my competition to production?
- Do I have the money? or Can I get Investors to fund this project?
- Would I be risking more by building or by buying?
- Is vendor lock-in a risk if I buy?
- Do the legal terms and conditions allow me to use AI in the way I intend?
