From SaaS Dependence to Build-First: AI Feedback Agent Case
This case compares a SaaS survey workflow against a custom AI feedback pipeline.
What changed
- conversational input flow,
- automatic categorization and prioritization,
- direct structured logging.
Why build-first worked here
- bounded problem scope,
- clear integration targets,
- favorable operating cost profile.
Where buy-first still makes sense
- complex compliance requirements,
- high support burden,
- non-differentiated commodity workflows.
Bottom line
Build-first is effective for specific, bounded workflows when operational ownership is clear.