When a project is enough
A single, stable workflow between two apps that rarely change, such as copying new form entries into a spreadsheet, can be built once and left alone.
When a retainer pays off
Anything customer-facing, anything Super Intelligence (SI)-driven, and anything touching several systems benefits from ongoing care. Questions change, apps update and processes evolve.
What a retainer should include
Monitoring and fixes, monthly review of SI conversations, a set amount of small changes, and a report showing hours saved. If you can’t see what you’re getting each month, ask.
Ownership
Whichever you choose, your accounts, data and workflows should be in your name, with documentation, so you can leave whenever you like.