Ask about business workflow, not model hype
Can the developer map your current process, identify the authoritative system for each field and define what a successful pilot does? Ask them to demonstrate an exception, not just a happy-path prompt. Their answers should be understandable to the person who will operate the system.
Verify technical ownership
Who owns the code, domain, cloud accounts and integration keys? Can you export your data and switch providers? Is the app built with documented interfaces? A maintainable GitHub repository and clear deployment process can help prevent dependence on one contractor.
Review security and testing
Ask how credentials are stored, who approves external messages, how access is revoked, how prompts are defended against hostile input and how failed jobs are retried. Request test cases for duplicates, missing data and provider outages. Check whether ongoing monitoring and support are included in the price.
Plan a realistic handoff
The best pilot includes training, documentation, cost visibility and clear boundaries for future work. FOURAK builds static-first websites and custom integrations for Alaska organizations, with a focus on ownership and AI-ready development workflows. Start with a scoped discovery conversation and compare proposals against written acceptance criteria.
A practical next step
Choose one process, document its inputs and approvals, and measure a baseline before connecting AI. If you're evaluating custom AI workflows or autonomous agents for an Alaska business, FOURAK can help define a secure, maintainable first phase.
Discuss an AI workflow with FOURAK →