How do I choose between Google Gemini and Vertex AI for my business?

All answers to this question.

For a mid-sized firm with limited coding, Gemini for Google Workspace is your best starting point. It integrates directly into Docs and Sheets, allowing you to generate reports and emails without an API setup. However, if you plan to build custom applications that interact with your own database or need to fine-tune models on proprietary data, Vertex AI is the required path. Vertex AI is a comprehensive machine learning platform that gives you access to the Model Garden, whereas Gemini in Workspace is an out-of-the-box productivity assistant. Most firms actually end up using a hybrid approach for maximum efficiency.

   Answered 2024-02-17 by Linda Thompson

Are you planning to use the AI for real-time customer support agents or just internal tasks? Vertex AI has a "Conversation" feature specifically for building chatbots that can be trained on your website data much more effectively than a standard Workspace setup.

   Answered 2024-02-18 by Mark Peterson

• Mark, we actually want both. Our priority is internal reporting first, but we have a vision for a client-facing support bot by Q4. Based on your question, it sounds like we should start with Gemini for the team productivity side today, but have our IT lead start prototyping the support agent in the Vertex AI Search and Conversation workbench. This way, we aren't locked into just one tool as our needs grow. Thanks for the clarification on the "Conversation" feature!

     Commented 2024-02-19 by Sarah Jenkins

Vertex AI also provides much more granular cost control. You pay for what you use via API calls, whereas Workspace is a per-user monthly subscription.

   Answered 2024-02-20 by James Miller

• James makes a great point about the pricing models. If you have a massive team, those per-user licenses add up, making the API-driven Vertex route more attractive for high-volume automated tasks.

     Commented 2024-02-21 by Linda Thompson