Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about AI consulting with North Idaho AI
1Getting Started
What if I don't understand AI?
That's exactly why we exist. You don't need to understand the technology—you just need to know your business. We translate your goals into working AI tools. Think of us as your translator between 'What I need' and 'How AI does it.'
Is this affordable for a small business?
Yes. Our consulting fees are based on your opportunity and SLA needs. You pay Abacus AI directly (minimum $10/month, plus initial setup of ~$300-500, then ongoing ~$50-150/month depending on scale). The $99 AI Audit gives you a clear ROI projection before you commit to anything. Plus, most automation pays for itself within 3-6 months through time savings alone—before considering new revenue opportunities.
What's included in the $99 AI Audit?
We visit your location (within 150 miles of Coeur d'Alene), observe your workflows, talk to your team, and identify 3-5 high-impact AI opportunities. You'll receive a written report with estimated ROI for each opportunity, implementation timelines, and a recommended 60-90 day action plan. This is a real audit with actionable insights—not a sales pitch.
Do I need to have data in good shape before starting?
No. Most small businesses have messy data—that's normal. Part of our job is helping you organize and structure your existing data so AI can use it effectively. We've worked with businesses running on spreadsheets, paper records, and outdated software. We meet you where you are.
2Pricing & Contracts
What does 'no lock-in' mean?
When we set up your AI infrastructure on Abacus AI, it's under YOUR account—not ours. You own the data, the models, the dashboards, everything. If you decide to stop working with us, you keep everything. You can even hire someone else to maintain it or do it yourself. We're consultants, not gatekeepers.
What if it doesn't work out?
All our engagements are month-to-month after the initial project (except the $99 audit, which is one-time). If you're not seeing value, you can cancel anytime. We'd rather have honest feedback than an unhappy client paying us out of obligation.
Do you offer payment plans?
For projects over $2,500, we can structure milestone-based payments. For example, 50% upfront, 25% at midpoint, 25% at completion. We want to make AI accessible, not create cash flow problems for your business.
Are there hidden fees?
No. Our consulting fee is transparent. Abacus AI charges you directly (minimum $10/month, plus initial configuration of ~$300-500 one-time, then ongoing ~$50-150/month depending on scale). You can see exactly what you're paying for. If there are any third-party tool costs (like connecting to specific software), we'll tell you upfront.
3Process & Timeline
How long does a typical AI implementation take?
It depends on complexity. A simple automation (like auto-responding to customer emails) might take 2-3 weeks. A full AI assistant with custom knowledge base might take 6-8 weeks. We'll give you a realistic timeline during the discovery phase—no overpromising.
Do I need to be technical to work with you?
Not at all. We handle all the technical work. Your job is to explain your business processes and goals. We'll ask questions like 'What takes up most of your time?' and 'Where do things get bottlenecked?' You answer in plain English—we translate that into AI.
Will you train my team?
Yes. Every implementation includes training tailored to your team's technical level. We create simple documentation, record video walkthroughs, and do hands-on sessions until everyone's comfortable. Our goal is adoption, not just delivery.
What happens after the initial implementation?
You have options: (1) We can hand it off completely and you're done. (2) We can stay on retainer for ongoing optimization, new features, and support. (3) We can do a hybrid—check-ins every quarter while you handle day-to-day. Your choice.
4Technical & Security
How do you protect my business data?
We work under mutual NDAs. Your data stays in YOUR Abacus AI account (not ours). Abacus AI is SOC 2 Type II certified with enterprise-grade security. We can provide detailed security documentation if needed for compliance.
What if I already use other AI tools?
Great! We can integrate with what you already have. Tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or specialized industry software can often be connected to Abacus AI to create a unified system. We're not here to rip and replace—we build on what works.
Can AI work with my existing software?
Usually, yes. Abacus AI can connect to most common business tools via APIs (QuickBooks, Shopify, POS systems, CRMs, etc.). During the $99 audit, we'll assess your current tech stack and identify what can be integrated.
What if I don't have a website?
We can build you an AI-powered website as part of our services. Starting at $999 with optional RAG-powered AI assistant (+$50). Many of our clients start there—it's the easiest first step into AI for businesses without existing digital infrastructure.
5Local & Service Area
How far do you travel for on-site visits?
We serve businesses within 150 miles of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. That includes Sandpoint, Spokane, Lewiston, Missoula, and surrounding areas. Beyond that, we can still work together, but discovery will be remote via video calls instead of on-site.
Why does local matter for AI consulting?
Remote consultants miss what we see: the actual work, the real bottlenecks, and the high-ROI opportunities hiding in your day-to-day operations. When we visit your shop, office, or hotel, we spot things that don't show up on Zoom calls. Plus, we understand the North Idaho business culture.
Can you work with businesses outside North Idaho?
Yes, but our sweet spot is local businesses within driving distance. If you're outside our service area, we can still help—just know that you won't get the full on-site experience that makes us different from remote consultants.
6ROI & Results
How do I know AI will actually help my business?
That's what the $99 audit is for. We'll show you specific opportunities with estimated ROI before you commit to anything. If we can't identify a clear path to 3x ROI within 12 months, we'll tell you AI isn't the right investment yet. We're not here to sell you technology you don't need.
What's a realistic time savings from AI automation?
Conservative estimates: 10-20 hours per month for a typical small business. This comes from automating data entry, report generation, customer communications, and repetitive tasks. At $25/hour, that's $250-500/month in labor savings alone—often enough to cover both our consulting and the Abacus AI subscription.
Can AI help me grow revenue, or just cut costs?
Both. Cost savings come from automation (less time on admin = more time on sales). Revenue growth comes from better customer experience (24/7 AI assistants, faster response times), smarter pricing (AI-powered forecasting), and capacity to serve more customers without hiring more staff.
What if I'm not ready for a full implementation?
Start with the $99 audit. It gives you a roadmap with zero obligation. Many clients use it to budget for 2026, secure internal buy-in, or just understand what's possible. No pressure to move forward if the timing isn't right.
Still Have Questions?
Schedule a free 30-minute consultation. No sales pitch—just honest answers to your specific questions.