FDE consulting for business AI

What does an FDE do?

FDE stands for Forward Deployed Engineer. The work starts with the customer’s operating context, connecting requirements, tool selection, implementation and feedback.

We can map who performs a task, what goes in and who uses the result. Start with an existing tool when it fits; discuss custom data connections or interfaces when needed.

What can we discuss first?

Repeated spreadsheet handling, inventory checks, scattered product information, recurring support questions and product content preparation are possible starting points. Choose a task with clear inputs, outputs and an owner.

Describe the current process, its most time-consuming step and the result you want. Redacted examples can help. You do not need to buy a tool or share passwords or a complete business dataset first.

From discussion to a bounded pilot

Map repeated handling and common mistakes, then compare existing tools, rule-based automation and AI assistance. Whether a tool such as WorkBuddy fits depends on the task, data requirements and cost.

Agree the pilot’s features, human review steps, handover materials and acceptance criteria before implementation. Narrow the scope or change the approach if the trial does not fit.

How do we assess the result?

Record comparable task duration, repeated entry or reasons for rework before implementation. Use the same measures during the pilot and check whether staff can continue using it and handle exceptions.

The initial consultation is free. Agree tool subscriptions, development, training and maintenance separately. Assess value against task frequency, implementation cost and observed pilot results.

Related project experience

These cases cover business software and knowledge-base collaboration. Read each case for the role and delivery scope.

Sanitaryware manufacturer inventory system ↗

Independently developed and delivered an inventory system for a large B2B sanitaryware manufacturer, covering requirements, workflow analysis and implementation.

Furniture barcode inventory system ↗

Led a carton-based barcode inventory system, designing receiving, transfers and dispatch with permissions, duplicate-submission handling and correction flows.

UK water purification brand · RAG support ↗

Contributed to customized RAG support through knowledge base organization, retrieval configuration and testing, helping the team progress from demos to live testing and delivery.

Questions before starting

Can we talk if I do not understand AI?

Yes. Describe one repetitive task. We will understand the business before discussing technology.

Does FDE consulting include on-site work?

Agree communication, any site visits, timing and deliverables before starting. An initial consultation does not include an ongoing on-site engagement.