Beyond Automation: The 3 Phases of an AI Agency Insights From Liam Ottley
The AI service landscape is booming, but it’s also confusing. With terms like “AI Automation Agency,” “AI Agency,” and “AI Transformation Partner” being used interchangeably, it’s hard to know what they mean, let alone which type of partner your business actually needs. This evolution isn’t just semantics; it’s a maturity model that charts a course from simple task automation to full-scale business transformation.
At TRIAD, we operate at the pinnacle of this model. We’re not just here to build a chatbot or automate a workflow; we serve as your strategic AI Transformation Partner. We guide you through the entire journey—from initial strategy and team education to the hands-on implementation of AI-driven automations and all-in-one digital marketing.
Inspired by a clear breakdown from AI agency expert Liam Ottley, let’s demystify the three phases of an AI service business so you can understand the path and identify the right partner for your needs.
Phase 1: The AI Automation Agency (AAA) – The On-Ramp
The AI Automation Agency is the entry point into the AI service world. It was born from the “aha moment” when powerful low-code and no-code tools like Voiceflow, Botpress, and Make.com emerged. Suddenly, you didn’t need to be a PhD or a Python developer to build valuable AI solutions for businesses.
- What they do: AAAs use low-code platforms to build solutions like custom knowledge chatbots and simple AI-integrated automations.
- Who it’s for: This model is the perfect “on-ramp” for non-technical entrepreneurs to gain experience and build momentum in the AI space.
- Project Size: Typically, these are smaller projects, ranging from $3,000 to $5,000, though a well-defined niche offer can command up to $10,000.
The magic of the AAA model is its accessibility. It allows individuals to become experts in AI implementation for specific industries simply by delivering a few projects, building a deep understanding of real-world use cases.
Phase 2: The AI Agency – The Custom Dev Scale-Up
An AI Agency represents the next level of maturity. This is a true AI development company that has moved beyond the limitations of no-code tools to offer bespoke, custom-coded solutions. The key transition from an AAA to an AI Agency is the investment in top-tier, full-time development talent—specifically, a full-stack developer with AI experience.
- Who it’s for: Businesses that need a solution that goes far beyond a basic set of automations and require a robust, scalable platform.
- Project Size: This is where project values leap significantly, starting at a minimum of $30,000 and reaching into the six-figure range for major builds.
This shift requires a consistent lead generation system to support the higher overhead of full-time developers, but it allows the agency to tackle much larger and more lucrative projects.
Phase 3: The AI Transformation Partner (AITP) – The Strategic End Game
The AI Transformation Partner is the final evolution. This model recognizes a critical truth: most businesses are not ready for development from day one. While AI Agencies focus on the small segment of the market that is “development-ready” (the innovators and early adopters), an AITP can serve the entire market—including the early and late majority.
- What they do: An AITP does more than just build; they guide. The process starts with education and discovery, not development proposals. They offer services like team workshops, risk assessment, process mapping, and in-depth AI audits to identify the highest-impact opportunities. For example, a four-week audit could be a $60,000 engagement that then leads to a $250,000 development deal.
- Who it’s for: Organizations looking for a long-term, strategic partner to navigate their entire AI adoption journey, from foundational knowledge to implementation and ongoing innovation management.
- Project Size: Engagements are substantial, with a minimum of $100,000, often beginning with a paid discovery phase that builds immense trust and rapport.
By mapping out a business’s entire operation, an AITP can make truly informed recommendations, ensuring the client is ready, willing, and confident to invest in large-scale AI adoption.
Find Your Transformation Partner
Understanding this progression from a simple agency to a transformation partner is key. Your business may not need just an automation; it may need a strategic roadmap. It may not need just a developer; it may need a guide to manage the internal changes that come with AI adoption.
At TRIAD, we provide that comprehensive partnership. We don’t just execute; we educate, strategize, and manage. With our expertise in AI-driven systems and support services like Executive Virtual Assistants and skills bootcamps, we ensure your transformation is not just technological, but organizational.
Ready to move beyond simple fixes and build a true AI strategy? Connect with us.
Disclaimer: This was inspired by the insights shared by Liam Ottley’s video titled “The AI Automation Agency Journey Explained (3 Key Phases)” The original content and ideas belong to Neil Patel and his team. You can watch the full video here.
We do not claim ownership of the original video or its content. This blog post is a derivative, educational commentary created for informational purposes only, in alignment with fair use guidelines. For complete and original insights, please refer directly to Liam Ottley’s content.