Architech

Do I need to get all my data ready before starting?

No. The AI Foundations Sprint defines the secure access pattern in 2-3 weeks, validates it against real operational data in a controlled environment, and produces the reference architecture every subsequent workflow uses. Data readiness is part of the engagement, not a prerequisite to it.

How long does this take?

Each stage is time-boxed. AI Jumpstart: 2-3 weeks to a scored workflow shortlist and defined Proof of Value. AI Foundations: 2-3 weeks to a validated access pattern and executive go/no-go decision. Transformation Sprint: 3 weeks to a plan of record and measurement baseline. A production Proof of Value typically follows in 3-4 weeks. First proof of value in production within 5-7 weeks is the typical path.

What if we have already started AI work?

The right entry point depends on where the work has stalled. Approved roadmap with no plan to deploy → Transformation Sprint. Security, governance, or data access blocking the work → Foundations. Workflows shipped but KPIs slipping → Outcome Assurance. Licences bought without measurable ROI → Jumpstart reframes the problem around workflow outcomes, not tools.

How do you measure results?

Evaluation is tied to your business KPI, not model behaviour. A model can score high on relevance and groundedness while cost-per-resolution drifts back to baseline. Architech builds a Golden Dataset of real queries and verified expected outputs with your SMEs, tests semantic behaviour, structural integrity, and end-to-end correctness independently, runs the dataset on a defined cadence, and adds every regression back so it cannot recur. Drift is caught in engineering before it surfaces in the P&L.

Do the stages need to be sequential?

No. Foundations and Jumpstart frequently run in parallel. Some workflows move directly from Jumpstart into Transformation. Transformation Sprint and Build are sold separately, so the plan stands on its own before any commitment to deliver. Outcome Assurance runs continuously after deployment - it is a discipline, not a stage.

How is this priced?

Each engagement is structured as a fixed scope with a defined deliverable. The Transformation Sprint is success-based: acceptance criteria are confirmed in Week 1, and if outcomes are not accepted at the end, no fee is charged. Capital follows confidence.

Are Sprint and Build a single contract?

No. Sprint and Build are sold separately. Each Sprint produces a decision-ready output that stands on its own. The Build follows when the plan is approved, using the same architecture, baselines, and acceptance criteria established during the Sprint. There is no upfront commitment to the full arc.

What keeps results from drifting after launch?

Most enterprise AI projects miss their KPIs by month six. Outcome Assurance is the discipline that prevents it: continuous evaluation tied to your KPI, a Golden Dataset that grows across the engagement lifecycle, regression sets that prevent recurrence, and a dedicated team accountable for the outcome metric month-over-month. The number on the P&L holds for as long as you own the workflow.