Start with the decision

A bounded workflow is easier to estimate than a broad request to “add AI”. Define who uses the result, what action follows, and what failure costs.

Data and integration dominate uncertainty

Access, quality, permissions and system interfaces often determine the real effort. A short discovery should test these before a production commitment.

Operation is part of the product

Evaluation, monitoring, incident handling and model change are recurring work. Estimate them with the first build rather than after launch.