In the rapidly evolving AI landscape, traditional software deployment methods are becoming obsolete. Customers expect immediate value from AI tools, not a drawn-out onboarding process that takes months. The article highlights how the best AI vendors are those that take on the majority of training and setup, allowing customers to see results from Day 1. Companies like Gorgias and Decagon have adopted this approach by providing dedicated teams that focus on making AI agents effective before customers start using them. This contrasts sharply with vendors that simply hand over the product and leave customers to figure it out, often leading to poor performance and dissatisfaction. Forward Deployed Engineers (FDEs) are central to this shift. They work closely with customers to customize AI solutions and ensure that agents are ready for immediate use. The article notes that while traditional SaaS models may have lower initial costs, the upfront investment in training and support for AI applications leads to lower churn and faster expansion. For instance, one VP of Customer Success mentioned spending three times more during the first 90 days compared to traditional methods, but achieving half the churn rate and double the expansion rate. The upfront effort pays off in the long run, with customers achieving significant value much more quickly, which in turn reduces the need for ongoing support. Overall, the trend shows that companies willing to invest heavily in the initial training and integration of AI solutions are positioned to succeed. There's a clear divide between those who prioritize customer success through proactive training and those who do not, with the former reaping the rewards of higher customer satisfaction and retention.