Frequently Asked Questions

Custom AI development means building AI systems from scratch for your specific needs, not configuring existing platforms. We design, architect, and code AI tailored to your workflows, data, and compliance requirements.

Existing platforms offer pre-built features you configure. Custom AI is built specifically for your problem. If your workflows are unique, your data is complex, or your compliance needs are strict, custom AI gives you control that platforms cannot.

Yes. We build fine-tuned LLMs, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) systems, conversational agents, and document processing tools. But we do not force LLMs into every problem. Some tasks need non-LLM AI.

Non-LLM AI includes optimization algorithms, forecasting models, simulation engines, classification systems, and decision logic. These systems solve numerical, spatial, and deterministic problems where LLMs are not the right tool.

Yes. We build hybrid architectures where LLMs handle language tasks and non-LLM AI handles precision tasks. This gives you the strengths of both without forcing everything through text generation.

Yes. We design systems aligned with HIPAA frameworks. We do not claim blanket HIPAA certification, but we build with access controls, encryption, audit trails, and data handling practices that support compliance.

Yes. We build systems designed to align with SOC 2 frameworks for security, availability, and confidentiality. We work with your compliance teams during architecture and deployment.

Yes. All personnel are US-based and operate under strict NDAs. We do not offshore development or data handling.

Security is foundational. We use encryption at rest and in transit, role-based access controls, audit trails, and secure deployment practices. If you need on-premise hosting or air-gapped systems, we accommodate that.

No. We do not use your data to train third-party models. You own your data. We build systems that respect your data residency, sovereignty, and control requirements.

We work across Python, C, C++, PHP, and JavaScript depending on project needs. For AI, we primarily use Python with libraries like TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, NumPy, and SciPy.

Yes. We specialize in integration. We connect AI to your existing software via APIs, database queries, file exports, or custom interfaces. We do not require you to rip and replace functional systems.

Both. We deploy on-premise, hybrid, or cloud depending on your security, compliance, and operational needs. You are not locked into a single vendor or platform.

Yes. Real-world data is often messy, siloed, or incomplete. Data preparation, cleaning, and normalization are part of the work. We handle it.

Our typical range is $90 to $300+ per hour depending on project complexity and team composition. Specialized custom non-LLM AI can reach approximately $1,200 per hour for highly technical work.

Total project cost varies widely. A focused workflow automation might be 100 to 400 hours. A full enterprise system could be 1,000+ hours. We provide estimates after discovery, but scope drives cost.

Generally, no. Custom AI development requires flexibility. We bill for actual effort. Fixed-price contracts often force corners to be cut, and we do not compromise quality.

Historically, our clients have seen 40 to 60 percent cost savings over 5 years compared to off-the-shelf alternatives when factoring in customization, licensing, and operational efficiency. We focus on total cost of ownership, not just upfront cost.

We start with discovery: understanding your workflows, data, goals, and constraints. We do not sell pre-built solutions. Every engagement begins with listening.

Timelines depend on scope. A focused workflow automation might take 2 to 4 months. A full enterprise system could take 6 to 18 months with iterative releases. We provide timelines after discovery.

We work in phases: discovery, architecture, development, testing, deployment, and post-launch support. You see working prototypes early. We do not disappear for months and then deliver a finished product.

Third-Way Alignment is our approach built on three laws: Mutual Respect, Shared Flourishing, and Ethical Coexistence. We design AI that augments human capability without replacing human judgment.

Yes. We serve businesses across Indiana including Indianapolis, Lafayette, Bloomington, Fort Wayne, Evansville, South Bend, and surrounding areas. Our team operates remotely with all personnel US-based.

In Indianapolis, we work with healthcare systems, law firms, financial services, and enterprise operations. We specialize in HIPAA-aligned healthcare AI, legal workflow automation, and regulated industry systems.

In Lafayette, we focus on engineering AI, optimization, simulation, and research-grade systems. We serve advanced manufacturing, agricultural tech, engineering firms, and research organizations.