The AI cost iceberg

Model usage is one part of an AI service's cost. The rest depends on the workflow, integration and operating responsibilities.

Count the whole arrangement

Include evaluation, human review, integration, exception handling, support and maintenance. Some costs already exist in the manual process; others are introduced by the new service. Compare those arrangements on the same scope and period.

Separate assumptions from results

A worked estimate should identify its volume, quality threshold, review effort and pricing date. Test how the answer changes if usage, errors or maintenance effort are higher than expected. An estimate is not an observed return.

Value follows useful outcomes

A generated answer is valuable when the organisation can use it. A faster commercial response may matter; so may better coverage or less repetitive work. Measure the outcome and the effort required to achieve it. There is no universal payback threshold or reliable multiplier for every AI initiative.

AI value starts with the workflow develops this approach.