Comparison
AI Consulting vs. DIY:
What Actually Works?
By Laird Doman · · 3 min read
You've got three options for getting AI into your business. Here's how they actually stack up.
| DIY (Google It) | Generic Consultant | Doman Growth AI | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | $3,000–$10,000+ | $999 flat |
| Time | 20–50+ hours of research | Multiple meetings over weeks | 90 min + follow-up |
| You Get | Scattered blog posts & YouTube | Strategy deck (50+ slides) | Actionable plan you can use today |
| Jargon Level | Overwhelming | Heavy — built for tech teams | Plain English |
| Accountability | None — you're on your own | Varies | 2-week follow-up included |
| Built For | Hobbyists | Enterprise / funded startups | Small business owners |
Not ready to commit? Start free.
Take the 1-minute AI Readiness Quiz or run a free AI visibility scan — then decide.
Here's the Truth
Most small businesses don't need a $10k AI strategy. They need someone to sit down with them, look at their specific situation, and say: "Here's what'll actually move the needle for you."
That's it. No 90-page deck. No month-long engagement. Just clarity.
What You Actually Get
- ✅ 90-minute 1-on-1 session with Laird
- ✅ Custom AI action plan for your business
- ✅ Tool recommendations (no coding required)
- ✅ 2-week follow-up to check progress
- ✅ A practical plan built around your business
Does It Actually Work?
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