A proof of concept: 2-4 weeks. A production system: 8-16 weeks. The real variable isn't the AI. It's your data.
Proof of Concept (2-4 weeks):
- Works with sample data
- Demonstrates the core capability
- Runs in a controlled environment
- Enough to validate the idea
Minimum Viable Product (6-8 weeks):
- Connected to real data sources
- Basic error handling
- Works for happy-path scenarios
- Ready for pilot users
Production System (12-16 weeks):
- Full integration with your systems
- Proper monitoring and logging
- Edge case handling
- Security and compliance
- Training and documentation
What extends timelines:
- Data cleanup and access (often 30-40% of total time)
- Stakeholder alignment and requirements changes
- Legacy system integrations
- Compliance and security review
What accelerates them:
- Clean, accessible data with clear ownership
- Fixed scope with single decision-maker
- Standard integrations (modern SaaS stack)
- Existing API infrastructure