Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s a present reality reshaping how businesses operate. From automating mundane tasks to providing deep insights through data analytics, AI is a game-changer. But as organizations embrace AI, a critical question arises: Which AI approach best suits their needs—Overlay AI or Native Enterprise AI?

In this blog post, we’ll explore these two approaches, provide real-world examples, and help you determine which path might be the best fit for your enterprise.

Understanding the Two AI Approaches

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Overlay AI vs. Native Enterprise AI: A Comparative Analysis

Integration and Interoperability

Overlay AI	Native Enterprise AI
Excels at integrating multiple platforms, breaking down barriers between applications for seamless workflows.	Limited to its host platform, which can hinder collaboration and data sharing across different tools.

User Experience

Overlay AI	Native Enterprise AI
Provides a consistent experience across different tools, reducing the need to learn multiple interfaces.	Seamless within its own platform but requires users to switch contexts when using different applications.

Customization and Flexibility

Overlay AI	Native Enterprise AI
Highly customizable and adaptable to fit various workflows and accommodate changes in your tech stack.	Customization is typically limited to the features within the platform, with less flexibility for external workflows.

Cost Considerations

Overlay AI	Native Enterprise AI
Potentially more cost-effective by reducing the need for multiple specialized tools and avoiding vendor lock-in.	May incur higher costs due to platform-specific pricing and the need for additional tools to cover all business functions.

Data Accessibility and Insights

Overlay AI	Native Enterprise AI
Aggregates data from multiple sources, providing comprehensive insights for better decision-making.	Offers deep insights within its platform but lacks visibility into data housed in other applications.

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Why Native Enterprise AI Might Be Easier for Big Companies

• Strong Security Measures
  • Big companies care a lot about keeping their data safe. Native Enterprise AI is often built with strong security features that meet the needs of large businesses. Since it’s part of a trusted platform, companies feel more secure using it.
  • Example: A large bank using Microsoft Dynamics 365 AI knows that Microsoft’s security measures meet strict industry standards.
• Smooth Integration with Existing Systems
  • Large companies might already use many tools from the same company. Native Enterprise AI works well with these tools, making it easier to set up and use.
  • Example: A big corporation using many SAP products can easily add SAP Leonardo AI features without worrying about complicated setups.
• Compliance and Regulations
  • Big businesses have to follow many rules and laws. Native Enterprise AI often helps them meet these requirements because it’s designed with these rules in mind.
• Support and Reliability
  • Large companies need reliable tools and good customer support. Native Enterprise AI providers usually offer strong support services, which is important for big businesses.
• Easier Management
  • Managing technology for a big company is hard. Using Native Enterprise AI means dealing with one main vendor, which can make management simpler.

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When to Choose Overlay AI

1. Your Organization Uses Diverse Tools

If your business relies on a variety of software applications across different departments, Overlay AI can unify these tools, providing a seamless AI experience.
Example: A company uses Slack for communication, Salesforce for CRM, and Google Workspace for productivity. Implementing Glean allows employees to search and access information across all these platforms from a single interface.

2. You Need Scalability and Flexibility

Overlay AI solutions can easily adapt as your organization grows or changes its tech stack, ensuring your AI capabilities evolve with you.

3. Avoiding Vendor Lock-In

Overlay AI allows you to remain vendor-neutral, giving you the freedom to choose or switch tools without losing your AI capabilities.

When Should You Choose Native Enterprise AI?

1. If You’re a Large Company with Strict Security Needs

Big businesses that need strong security and compliance might prefer Native Enterprise AI because it’s built to meet those needs.
Example: A healthcare company using Salesforce might choose Salesforce Einstein because it helps them keep patient data secure.

2. If You Rely on One Main Program

If your business mainly uses one program, Native Enterprise AI can make that program even better.
Example: If you use Microsoft tools for everything, Microsoft Dynamics 365 AI adds smart features across those tools.

3. If You Need Special Features and Support

Native Enterprise AI can offer special tools made just for that program, along with strong customer support.

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Looking Ahead: The Future of AI in Business

• Working Together Is Important
  • Businesses are using more and more different tools. Overlay AI helps them all work together.
• Security and Compliance Matter
  • As rules get stricter, Native Enterprise AI might become more important for big companies that need to follow many regulations.
• Easier Connections
  • New technologies are making it easier to connect different programs. This helps Overlay AI work better.
• User-Friendly Design
  • Both types of AI are becoming easier to use, which is good for everyone.

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Final Thoughts

Choosing between Overlay AI and Native Enterprise AI depends on what your business needs.

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Artificial Intelligence is not a one-size-fits-all solution. By understanding the strengths and limitations of Overlay AI and Native Enterprise AI, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives and sets your organization up for future success.