How I evaluate AI customer service AI vendors

I’ve evaluated and deployed AI chat and voice platforms in large-scale support environments. Most teams over-index on demos and under-index on what is most important, and how to build for the most deflectable contacts. This is how I evaluate vendors when the goal is real containment, not a pilot that looks good in a vendor deck.

I’ve evaluated and deployed AI chat and voice platforms in large-scale support environments. Most teams over-index on demos and under-index on what is most important, and how to build for the most deflectable contacts. This is how I evaluate vendors when the goal is real containment, not a pilot that looks good in a vendor deck.

What actually matters

Pricing model (outcome-based vs usage-based)

AI reliability and failure modes

Ease of use for non-technical operators

Analytics that drive optimization

Product roadmap and innovation velocity

Vendor partnership and execution quality