16 Changes to the Way Enterprises Are Building and Buying Generative AI ↗

Editorial Notes

The definitive build-vs-buy analysis for AI in the enterprise, backed by survey data from hundreds of CIOs and technology leaders. a16z identifies the major shift from single-vendor to multi-model strategies, the growing role of open-source models, and the transition from proof-of-concept to production deployments. For product leaders and CEOs, the key takeaway is that the decision is no longer binary “build or buy” — it’s “build, partner, and buy” with different approaches for different use cases. The article provides concrete data on budget allocation, vendor selection criteria, and where enterprises are seeing actual ROI. Compare this market-level view with the provider-specific capabilities you’ve explored in earlier steps to calibrate your own strategy.