To be honest, I can't yet say whether this will be an evolution or a revolution. But one thing is certain: it will be a step forward. How big that step will be remains to be seen in the coming years. What is clear, however, is that Vertical AI or Multi-Agentic Agents will be the next major wave of innovation after SaaS. While we are still in the early stages, it's evident that this technology is not only changing how businesses operate but also has a profound impact on efficiency, cost savings, and the acceleration of business processes. And that's without even mentioning the enormous potential for talent acquisition—especially for those who do not want to recruit internationally.
The subscription model as we know it today will change significantly. The value of AI tools extends far beyond traditional software. These tools impact organizations 24/7 without the limitations of human intervention.
"With increasing absenteeism due to illness or psychological issues, companies will increasingly rely on digital employees. It may sound inhumane, but I am convinced that this is the direction we are heading."
From SaaS to Vertical AI
Software as a Service (SaaS) has completely transformed how companies use software over the past decades. With SaaS, businesses pay for access to cloud-based software without investing in expensive infrastructure. This model introduced scalability, accessibility, and flexibility.
However, while SaaS often provides a generic solution for a broad range of companies, Vertical AI takes it a step further. Vertical AI focuses on specific industries and use cases, offering tailored solutions deeply integrated into niche markets such as healthcare, manufacturing, and legal services. This allows businesses not only to work more efficiently but also to create new value within their sector that was previously unimaginable.
Belgian SaaS Pioneers in the Spotlight
Belgium has built an impressive reputation in the SaaS world. Especially in Ghent, which we can call the innovation hub, we at Summ.link aim to contribute to this future. Looking back at recent years, remarkable companies like Odoo, Lighthouse, Deliverect, Lexis® Create+ (formerly Henchman), Silverfin, Robovision, TechWolf, Teamleader, and many more have raised billions to strengthen their positions. These companies demonstrate how SaaS not only changes technology but also drives economic growth in a region. Just think about where we were ten years ago—nowhere!
The success of these pioneers serves as a powerful inspiration for the rise of Vertical AI.
The New Reality of AI Pricing
Recently, OpenAI introduced a new pricing tier for ChatGPT: $200 per month. This marks a significant shift in the market, showing that AI solutions are no longer just seen as tools but as strategic assets for businesses.
As Arjun Pillai noted:
"When ChatGPT introduced $20/month, it became a price anchor for many other players. Now, with the launch of ChatGPT Pro at $200/month, we see a new standard emerging. This will undoubtedly push CFOs and businesses to conduct deeper ROI analyses."
And as Louis Gleeson aptly put it:
"A $60/month ChatGPT account replaces tasks that would otherwise cost $1K-$2K per hour with a lawyer. Is $200/month the limit? Definitely not. This is just the beginning of a model where AI tools can cost thousands of dollars per month."
Value-Based Pricing (VBP) and Vertical AI
An important development here is the concept of value-based pricing: setting prices based on the value a solution provides to the customer. But what exactly does "value" mean? For an individual, $200 per month might be too high, whereas businesses will primarily look at deeper process efficiencies. AI agents, for example, won't replace lawyers, but they will significantly speed up their work—far beyond what we are accustomed to today. The final decisions will still rest with the expert, but the time savings are enormous, both for the firm and the client.
The maximum price of AI will vary greatly by sector. In a helpdesk context, pricing will likely be lower than in industries such as manufacturing or legal services, where the impact and value are significantly higher. This makes it clear that understanding the specific needs and benefits per customer segment is crucial. Where does the limit lie? $500, $1,000, or even a multiple of that per month? No one knows yet. Personally, I believe that when enough VBP is present, companies will be willing to pay substantial amounts to integrate enhanced reliability and efficiency into teams that are never absent or require retraining.
Example: 24/7 Helpdesk with 50 Employees
A 24/7 helpdesk can yield significant cost savings in Europe. Here’s a brief cost breakdown:
Average salary per employee: €300 per month
Shift allowance (25%): €75 per employee
Total salary per employee: €375 per month
For 50 employees, the monthly wage cost amounts to €18,750. With additional operational costs (office space, technology, management) at 50% of wage costs, the total monthly costs amount to €28,125. Annually, the total cost for the call center reaches €337,500.
How much do you think this company would be willing to invest in Vertical AI agents for this task—to not only boost productivity but also achieve significant cost savings?
What Does This Mean for Vertical AI?
The developments in AI pricing highlight the immense value AI can deliver. At Summ.link, we see Vertical AI as a crucial part of this shift. While traditional AI tools are often generic, Vertical AI provides solutions specifically tailored to niche markets. Why are banks in Belgium all building their own chatbots today?
These agents replace inefficiencies, not people. By supporting organizations 24/7 and accelerating strategic tasks, they not only increase productivity but also transform business models and strengthen a company’s competitive position.
Why This Matters to You
The demand for AI solutions will continue to grow, as will their costs. This means businesses must invest more strategically in technology that directly adds value. With Pulse.lab, we help our clients navigate this transition by co-developing AI solutions.
Are you active in Finance & Banking, Customer Service, Manufacturing & Supply Chain, Human Resources & Recruitment, Marketing & Sales, Real Estate, or Legal & Compliance? Then I’d love to hear what challenges you think Vertical AI should solve—think big!
Or do you want to be part of the (r)evolution? We are still looking for innovators and entrepreneurs to launch their own ventures!
