Honest answers to the questions we hear most.

We already use AI tools. Why do we need NorthPilot?

Using AI tools and running AI systems are different things. Tools like ChatGPT or Copilot help individuals work faster. What we build are operational systems connected to your data, integrated into your workflows, and designed to create a measurable business outcome.

Do you build custom systems or use existing tools?

Both but always in that order. We start by understanding the problem, then choose the right approach: existing platforms, custom-built components, or a combination. The technology is selected after the bottleneck is understood.

Are you an AI agency, a consultancy, or a software company?

None of those exactly. We are an AI transformation partner which means we combine strategic diagnosis with technical implementation. We do not hand over a report and leave. We stay through the point where the system proves its value.

How long does a first system take?

Typically 6 to 8 weeks from start of audit to end of pilot. Week 1: audit. Week 2: system design. Weeks 3 to 4: build. Week 5: pilot. Weeks 6 to 8: measurement. The How It Works page covers the full process.

What does the AI Opportunity Audit involve?

A structured diagnostic: 2 to 4 sessions with key people, analysis of your workflows, data sources, and decision points. You receive a written report with bottleneck mapping, opportunity prioritisation, and a first-system recommendation.

Do I need to prepare anything before we start?

Not much. The most useful thing is clarity on where your biggest operational friction sits, even a vague feeling. We structure the diagnostic to surface the specifics.

What does the audit cost?

The audit is a paid engagement. The specific investment depends on the scope of your operations and how many workflows we are examining. We discuss this on the strategy call.

Is there a retainer or long-term commitment?

No retainer until the audit proves the opportunity. After a successful pilot, many clients choose an ongoing optimisation arrangement but this is a choice, not a condition. You own the systems we build.

Can you integrate with our CRM, WhatsApp, phone system, or internal docs?

Usually yes. We have built integrations with CRM systems (HubSpot, Salesforce, Pipedrive, custom), document sources (Notion, SharePoint, Google Drive), communication tools (WhatsApp Business, Slack), and telephony platforms. The integration landscape is assessed during the audit.

Do you use no-code tools like Zapier or Make?

For simple automations where it is the right fit, yes. For systems that need reliability, custom logic, or deep integration, we build properly. The tool is chosen after the problem is understood.

What size companies do you work with?

Our primary focus is B2B companies with 5 to 200 employees in the Netherlands. Small enough that decisions move quickly; large enough to feel the operational friction we solve. We work across real estate, logistics, finance, HR, and professional services.

What happens after the pilot?

Three outcomes: scale (the system works, we expand), refine (works partially, we adjust before scaling), or stop (results do not justify continuation and you keep the system and data). All three are legitimate. The goal is clarity, not dependency.

What does NorthPilot not do?

We do not build quick chatbots. We do not sell software licences. We do not do broad AI rollouts without a diagnostic. We identify leverage points, build systems around them, and measure whether they work.