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AI Ops Is Not MLOps, Data Science, or IT

Brandon Gadoci

Brandon Gadoci

July 15, 2025

Let's clear up some confusion. AI Ops isn't MLOps, Data Science, or just another IT project. Understanding these differences is crucial for success.

Here's the Breakdown

MLOps vs AI Ops

  • MLOps manages the lifecycle of machine learning models—training, deployment, monitoring, retraining
  • AI Ops ensures those models actually deliver business value through workflow integration

You can have excellent MLOps and still fail to generate business impact. AI Ops bridges the gap between model performance and operational outcomes.

Data Science vs AI Ops

  • Data Science extracts insights from data—patterns, predictions, analyses
  • AI Ops integrates those insights directly into your workflows for actionable outcomes

Insights that sit in dashboards don't drive value. AI Ops ensures insights trigger action.

IT-Driven AI vs AI Ops

  • IT focuses on infrastructure and technical excellence—uptime, security, scalability
  • AI Ops addresses broader business challenges and operational problems

IT asks "Is it running?" AI Ops asks "Is it working?"

Automation Tools vs AI Ops

  • RPA handles predefined, rule-based tasks—if X happens, do Y
  • AI Ops incorporates intelligence and adaptability for complex scenarios where rules don't cover every case

RPA automates the predictable. AI Ops handles the variable.

The Bottom Line

AI Ops isn't just about using AI—it's about building an organization where AI becomes a natural part of how work gets done.

It's the difference between having a high-performance engine sitting in your garage versus having a finely-tuned race car on the track.

The engine is impressive. But the race car wins.

#AI operations#MLOps#data science#definitions

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