Find the Right Workflow Automation Solution for Your Business
MVP OPS is the right choice when you need strategic operational transformation beyond simple automation. We're ideal for growing businesses with 5+ connected tools who need enterprise-grade integrations without enterprise overhead. For simpler needs, DIY tools or freelancers may suffice.
Honest comparisons to help you make the best decision
MVP OPS vs DIY Automation
Zapier, Make, n8n, and self-built solutions
DIY tools are great for simple automations, but they hit limits fast when you need complex, multi-system workflows.
MVP OPS
- Strategic architecture design
- Multi-system integration expertise
- AI agent implementation
- Ongoing optimization & support
- Best practices from 50+ implementations
DIY Tools
- Lower upfront cost
- Good for simple, single-trigger automations
- DIY learning curve
- You manage all maintenance
- Limited to platform capabilities
When to Choose Each Option
Choose DIY if you have simple automation needs (< 5 connected tools) and technical staff with time to build and maintain. Choose MVP OPS when you need enterprise-grade integrations, have complex multi-system workflows, or lack internal automation expertise.
MVP OPS vs Freelancers
Individual automation specialists and contractors
Freelancers can be cost-effective for one-off projects, but often lack the breadth of expertise and ongoing support for evolving systems.
MVP OPS
- Team of specialists (not just one person)
- Certified Smartsheet partnership
- Documented, transferable systems
- Ongoing support & optimization
- Insurance and business continuity
Freelancers
- Potentially lower hourly rates
- Flexibility for small projects
- Direct communication
- Single point of contact
- Variable quality and reliability
When to Choose Each Option
Choose freelancers for small, isolated automation tasks with clear scope. Choose MVP OPS when you need reliable, long-term operational transformation with guaranteed quality and ongoing support.
MVP OPS vs Enterprise Consultants
Big 4, Accenture, and large system integrators
Enterprise consultants excel at massive transformations but often bring overhead that doesn't fit growing businesses.
MVP OPS
- Right-sized for growing businesses
- Faster implementation (weeks, not months)
- Transparent, project-based pricing
- Direct access to senior specialists
- Agile, iterative approach
Enterprise Consultants
- Resources for massive projects
- Global presence
- Brand recognition
- Full-time on-site teams
- Often overkill for SMBs
When to Choose Each Option
Choose enterprise consultants for $10M+ transformation projects requiring global coordination. Choose MVP OPS when you need senior expertise without the overhead, faster timelines, and solutions sized for growing businesses.
MVP OPS vs Single-Platform Vendors
Salesforce consultants, HubSpot agencies, etc.
Platform-specific vendors know their tool deeply but may push you toward solutions that don't fit your actual needs.
MVP OPS
- Tool-agnostic recommendations
- Best tool for each job approach
- No vendor lock-in
- Cross-platform integration expertise
- Holistic operational view
Platform Vendors
- Deep platform-specific knowledge
- Certified implementation partners
- Platform-specific best practices
- May get preferred pricing
- Incentivized to sell their platform
When to Choose Each Option
Choose single-platform vendors if you're committed to that platform and need deep customization. Choose MVP OPS when you need unbiased recommendations, have multiple tools to integrate, or want flexibility to evolve your stack.
Quick Decision Guide
Answer these questions to find your best fit
Choose MVP OPS if you:
- Have 5+ tools that need to work together
- Want strategic guidance, not just implementation
- Need ongoing optimization as you grow
- Value certified expertise and best practices
- Want to focus on running your business, not your automations
Consider alternatives if you:
- Only need to connect 1-2 simple tools
- Have internal automation expertise
- Need a one-time project with clear scope
- Have budget constraints under $10K
- Prefer to build and maintain systems yourself
Common Questions
How much does MVP OPS cost compared to alternatives?
Our projects typically range from $15K-$75K depending on complexity, compared to $5K-$20K for freelancers, $0-$5K for DIY (plus your time), and $100K+ for enterprise consultants. The key difference is total cost of ownership—our solutions are designed for long-term efficiency.
How long does implementation take?
Most clients see initial improvements within 2-3 weeks, with full transformation in 6-12 weeks. This compares favorably to enterprise projects (6-18 months) while being more thorough than typical freelancer engagements.
What if I already have automations built?
We audit and optimize existing automations as part of our Discovery phase. Often we can improve what you have rather than rebuilding from scratch, saving time and preserving institutional knowledge.
Do you replace our existing tools?
No. Our approach is to make your existing tools work together better. We're tool-agnostic and only recommend changes when there's a clear ROI benefit.
Not Sure Which Option is Right?
Book a free 30-minute consultation. We'll honestly assess whether MVP OPS is the right fit—and if not, we'll point you in the right direction.
No sales pressure. Just clarity.