Different Problems
AI integration connects intelligence into existing software. Automation moves data and actions across tools. Many projects need both, but not in the same phase or at the same cost.
Where Integration Fits
Use integration when the team needs model-assisted search, summarization, classification, or generation inside the systems they already use.
Where Automation Fits
Use automation when the work is repetitive, rule-driven, and spread across systems like CRM, billing, email, and scheduling.
How to Scope Correctly
Pick one business outcome, map the manual workflow, identify the AI decision points, and define the handoff points that should remain human-led.