8. Building an AI Platform

As an AI startup, it is essential to have a clear strategy for designing, developing, and operating an AI platform that can meet market demands. In the previous chapters, we learned about validating AI products from various perspectives. This chapter will explore the details of building a successful AI platform that involves designing, developing, and operating the AI system. Building an AI platform is a complex process that requires careful consideration of many factors. We will explore the importance of the three pillars of AI platform design: system design, process design, and team design. We will provide a comprehensive framework that unifies these pillars into a single approach to building an effective AI platform. Measuring the maturity of an AI platform is also an essential aspect of the building process. We will discuss how to assess the platform at different stages, from initial development to optimized operation. This chapter will also discuss the challenges and best practices of building an AI platform. We will explore common issues and provide practical solutions to ensure success. To illustrate how the framework and best practices discussed in this chapter can be applied in practice, we will provide a case study of designing, developing, and operating an eKYC AI as a Service platform. This case study will provide real-world examples of the key considerations and decisions in building an effective AI platform. By the end of this chapter, you will have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to build a successful AI platform and the steps involved in designing, developing, and operating such a system.