Talkulate AI CPQ — FAQ

No. Complexity is not about the number of SKUs, but the logic connecting them. You might have only 5 base products (e.g., industrial pumps), but if they have thousands of possible configuration permutations, dependencies, and constraints, our system is highly effective.

The price depends on three main factors: (1) the complexity of your AI product configuration logic and industry-specific requirements, (2) integrations with your existing systems (CRM, ERP, product databases), and (3) deployment model - whether you choose our cloud-hosted solution (Custom-as-a-Service) or on-premise deployment.

Base package includes deployment of our dual-agent system adapted to your catalog, integration with your product database (where technically feasible), basic design customization matching your brand, and website embedding via iframe. Additional costs may include data structuring services, advanced custom design work, or specialized integrations beyond standard scope.

Three factors: system complexity (number of product categories, validation rules, integration points), your SLA requirements (response time, uptime guarantees), and request volume. Think of it as infrastructure that scales with your needs - not arbitrary limits.

No. Updates, monitoring, and standard technical support are included in the monthly service fee. New feature development or major architectural changes would be scoped and priced separately.

Absolutely. Standard Deployment is designed exactly for this - test with part of your catalog, validate results, then scale. Most clients start to lean and expand once they see conversion improvements.

Yes, we offer phased payment aligned with implementation milestones: initial deposit → integration completion → go-live → monthly service fees.

Depends on your current conversion rates and average deal size. We can run projections together - most clients see ROI within 1-3 months based on the 4× conversion improvement and elimination of engineering bottlenecks. If you're losing 60% of prospects to wait times alone, payback comes fast.

Extremely flexible. Unlike traditional chatbots that follow rigid "Decision Trees" (If A → Then B), our "Interviewer Agent" works with contextual goals. You define the data points we need to collect (e.g., budget, timeline, technical constraints), and the Agent determines the best way to ask for them based on the flow of conversation. It feels like AI guided selling — not a survey.

Core logic changes are managed by us to ensure system stability and 100% accuracy. However, we can provide you with access to System Prompt settings. This allows your team to tweak the agent's "personality," tone of voice (e.g., formal vs. friendly), and phrasing without risking the integrity of the selection logic.

Yes. The system can support dynamic routing. For example, the first question can be "Are you a homeowner or an installer?" Based on the answer, the agent switches modes: asking technical questions and showing wholesale pricing to the installer, while using simplified language and retail pricing for the homeowner.

We handle the entire integration. You provide access credentials and documentation of your database structure - we build the connection layer, mapping, and validation logic. Whether it's PostgreSQL, MySQL, MSSQL, or REST APIs from your ERP, we adapt to your infrastructure.

All of them, technically - but here's what actually happens: we build our own optimized PostgreSQL database specifically designed for CPQ validation and quoting logic. Your source data can be in any format (SQL databases, Excel, XML feeds, API endpoints). We handle the migration and ongoing synchronization. You don't need to change your systems.

Data structuring is one of our core services. We can consolidate your catalog from scattered Excel files, PDF specifications, and your engineers' expertise into a unified, queryable database for AI product configuration. This is billed separately - typically $3,450-$17,250 depending on catalog complexity and data volume. For a 500-component catalog with basic attributes, expect closer to $3,450. For 5,000+ SKUs with complex dependencies and incomplete documentation, it scales up.

It varies by industry and selection methodology. Server CPQ-style validation needs CPU specs, RAM compatibility matrices, power requirements. Garden design services need plant hardiness zones, sun exposure, soil types. We audit your sales methodology first, then define the minimum viable data structure. Typically: product IDs, names, categories, pricing, and 5-15 selection criteria per product type.

Two options: (1) We can set up automatic synchronization with your existing catalog system - changes propagate in near real-time. (2) We can build a simple interface for your team to manage updates directly. Most clients opt for automatic sync to eliminate manual work.

Your choice. Automatic synchronization is hands-off - your existing systems remain the source of truth. Alternatively, we can provide an admin interface where your product managers update specs, pricing, and availability directly. No technical skills required.

There are no turnkey ERP connectors shipped as standard product features. Catalog and pricing sync is delivered as part of implementation: REST APIs, database access, scheduled exports, or middleware—against SAP, Oracle NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce CPQ, and other systems when your infrastructure allows. If direct integration is impractical, we design a reliable fallback (for example scheduled file drops).

Automatic handoff to your sales team. Talkulate AI CPQ recognizes when it's out of its depth - unusual customization requests, pricing negotiations beyond defined rules, or questions requiring human judgment. It doesn't pretend or hallucinate. Instead, it captures all context from the conversation and routes it to your team with full history. Customer doesn't hit a dead end - they get "Let me connect you with our specialist who can help with this specific requirement."

Depends on your sales methodology. Three common approaches: (1) System presents closest standard configuration and flags it as "requires custom quote," (2) Captures custom requirements in structured format for your engineering team, or (3) Routes immediately to human sales for anything outside catalog. We define these rules together during implementation based on how you currently handle custom requests.

Yes. We can implement multi-tier pricing rules: volume breakpoints, seasonal promotions, partner/dealer pricing, loyalty discounts, bundle offers. The logic can be as sophisticated as needed - progressive discounts based on total system cost, category-specific promotions, time-limited offers. All rules are transparent and auditable.

Yes, no technical limitations. The dual-agent architecture adapts conversation style and terminology to each language naturally - not rigid translations. Critical point: define required languages upfront during scoping. Adding languages post-launch requires re-training the interviewer agent on industry terminology and conversation patterns for each language.

Yes, but it's a configuration setting, not a dynamic toggle. You can deploy separate instances for different product lines or restrict one instance to specific categories. What you can't do: turn categories on/off in real-time through a dashboard. Changes require redeployment (typically 15-30 minutes).

Through explicitly defined compatibility rules and constraint checking - not AI guesswork. Example: If Component A requires 750W power supply, the system will not choose less than 750W + your %gap. We encode your engineering knowledge (voltage requirements, physical dimensions, interface standards, regulatory constraints) into mathematical rules. Every validation is deterministic and traceable.

Yes, when we encode those requirements into the validation logic. Examples: medical devices must meet FDA/CE marking requirements, electrical systems need UL certification, food equipment requires NSF compliance. System automatically excludes non-compliant components or flags configurations requiring additional certification. We document your regulatory landscape during implementation and build those boundaries into the validation logic.

Absolutely. We can build a reference system for lead times based on component availability, manufacturing schedules, shipping zones, and installation complexity. Example: "Standard server config ships in 5-7 days. Your custom RAID setup adds 3-5 days. Installation in your region typically takes 1-2 days." We develop the calculation methodology together - you know your operations, we encode the logic.

This can be implemented as an additional feature if Talkulate AI CPQ is accessible to your registered users. Requires user authentication (login system) to persist sessions securely. For anonymous visitors, sessions are temporary - once they close the browser, history is lost. Most B2B clients implement this; B2C clients often don't, depending on purchase cycle length.

Same requirement as above - needs user authentication. Once implemented, customers get a unique link or dashboard access to retrieve saved configurations. Useful for complex purchases with long decision cycles (enterprise infrastructure, industrial equipment) where stakeholders review specs over weeks. Less critical for faster sales cycles.

We can implement PDF generation as an optional feature. The PDF would include complete specification breakdown, pricing, visual diagrams (if applicable), terms and conditions, and validity period. Most clients request this for B2B scenarios where configurations get circulated internally for approval. Format and branding are fully customizable.

Depends on your methodology and design preferences. Two approaches: (1) Inline explanations - brief remarks next to each selected component ("Recommended based on your 50-user requirement and redundancy needs"), or (2) Detailed summary section explaining the entire configuration logic. We design this during implementation to match how your sales team currently explains recommendations.

Configurable, but standard output is an interactive, detailed commercial proposal. Think: visual product breakdown, specifications table, pricing with line items, compatibility confirmations, regulatory compliance notes, and next steps. Not a bare component list - a document your sales team would be proud to send manually. Design and content depth are tailored to your industry standards.

Yes, through validated alternatives selection. If the system recommended Component X, customer can view compatible alternatives (Component Y or Z) and swap them. The workflow recalculates pricing and updates the proposal in real-time. What they can't do: break compatibility rules or bypass validation logic - the engineer agent prevents invalid configurations.

You have two options: (1) Instant email notifications containing the customer details, full conversation transcript, and the generated PDF quote. (2) CRM integration built during implementation—not off-the-shelf plug-ins. Where your CRM exposes a usable API (or we can use webhooks, middleware, or structured exports), we automate creating or updating leads or deals with specs and transcript attached. Scope and feasibility are confirmed during scoping for stacks such as Salesforce, HubSpot, Pipedrive, and others.

Once the configuration is exported to your CRM or Quote Management System, your team has full control to edit it. If you require a dedicated interface within the Talkulate AI CPQ platform to tweak configurations before they reach your CRM (e.g., for a manager review step), we can develop a custom Admin Portal for your team as an add-on service.

Training is minimal because the AI handles the complexity. Your team doesn't need to learn how to operate the tool, only how to interpret its output. A single 60-minute demo session is typically enough to show them how to read the generated audit trails and follow up on the high-quality leads the system produces.

No, we intentionally designed the system without "live chat takeover." The goal is to automate the qualification process and free your engineers from being glued to a chat window. If the AI cannot resolve a query, it captures the context and creates a "Human Follow-up Required" task for your team to handle via email or phone.

Yes. This is a core part of our "No Black Box" architecture. Along with the quote, your sales team receives a logic log. You will see exactly why the system selected specific components (e.g., "Selected Model X because user requested >500GB throughput and redundant power supply"). This gives your reps the context they need to close the deal.

Yes. We can implement it as add-on for your system.

We provide raw data access so you can connect it to your existing BI tools (PowerBI, Tableau, Looker). Alternatively, we can build a custom performance dashboard for you that tracks conversion rates, average order value, popular configurations, and specific drop-off points in the conversation flow.

Yes. Basic customization (colors, logo, fonts, button styles) is included in the base package. If you have existing design guidelines, we'll match them. For fully custom UI/UX design built from scratch or complex design systems, we can provide that as an additional service - from $3,450.

Highly flexible within our component architecture. Think of it like this: we provide the engine, you control the exterior. Basic package covers color schemes, typography, spacing, and component positioning. Want something radically different - like a full-screen immersive experience or multi-step wizard instead of chat? That's custom design territory.

Absolutely. That's standard. Send us your brand assets (logo files, hex codes, font files or Google Fonts names) and design guidelines - we'll implement them precisely. If your brand uses custom fonts requiring licensing, you'll need to provide the web font licenses.

Yes, and it's free. No "Powered by" badges, no mentions of our company on your website unless you want them - only as our cases.

Yes, but it requires evaluating your site architecture first. If your site uses modern frameworks (React, Next.js), deep integration is straightforward. Legacy sites or complex design systems might need additional adaptation work. We'll audit your site during scoping and give you honest feedback on integration depth.

Between 5 days and 6 weeks, depending on integration complexity and data readiness. Simple case: clean product database, standard website, minimal customization - 5-10 days. Complex case: data structuring needed, multiple system integrations, custom business logic - 4-6 weeks. We give you a precise timeline after the initial audit — including your AI RFQ (Request for Quote) → AI quoting workflow, if that's how deals start in your org.

Depends on the track you choose. Minimum involvement: explain your sales methodology and product selection criteria (2-3 workshops), then embed the code on your site. Maximum involvement: collaborative work with sales, marketing, and technical teams to fine-tune conversation flows and validation logic. Most clients land somewhere in the middle - about 10-15 hours total across 2-3 weeks.

Not unless you're running full legacy systems with zero API access. For modern infrastructure, we handle everything - just provide access credentials. Even for older systems, if there's any way to connect (database access, file exports, APIs), we'll make it work. You focus on explaining your business logic; we handle the technical implementation.

Yes - that's exactly what Standard Deployment is for. Launch with one product line, validate performance, gather feedback, then expand. No need to configure your entire 5,000-SKU catalog on day one. Smart clients start with their highest-margin or most complex products.

We deploy a dedicated server in our private cloud (AWS/Azure) configured specifically for your catalog and business logic. On your website, integration happens via JavaScript snippet or iframe - similar to embedding a chat widget or analytics tool. Takes 10 minutes for your web team to implement. No backend changes to your existing site required.

Yes. Shopify and WordPress are straightforward. Custom CMS platforms work as long as they allow JavaScript or iframe embedding (which 99% do). We'll verify compatibility during the initial audit.

Yes—as custom integration work, not as pre-built plug-ins. We do not ship generic one-click CRM connectors. During implementation we design the handoff your tenant allows: APIs, webhooks, middleware, or exports. For common platforms (Salesforce, HubSpot, Pipedrive, and others), the goal is automated lead or opportunity creation with full specs and history when technically feasible—scoped and tested for your environment.

Your choice: (1) Email notifications with configuration details and customer contact info, or (2) CRM integration built in the project so new configurations can create or update CRM records with specs attached—where your platform supports it. Many clients choose (2) once integration scope is clear; it keeps context in one system without manual retyping.

For the standard cloud model, we deploy your instance in our private, isolated cloud environment on AWS or Azure (typically Frankfurt or Ireland regions for European clients). Your data is isolated from other clients - we do not use shared databases for distinct customers.

Yes. We adhere to strict data processing agreements. Crucially, our architecture separates Personal Identifiable Information (PII) from the AI logic. The AI agents process technical requirements and product selection rules; they do not retain customer PII for model training. Customer contact details are encrypted and stored only for the purpose of generating the quote and handing it off to your sales team.

First, on the principle of data minimization: we rarely need your internal margins or costs - only the final pricing visible to the customer. Second, our dual-agent architecture acts as a firewall. The "Interviewer" agent talks to the client but doesn't have direct access to your database. The "Engineer" agent queries the database but doesn't talk to the client. This structure prevents "prompt injection" attacks (where users try to trick the AI into revealing hidden data).

Access is strictly limited to your authorized team members and a select group of R[AI]SING SUN senior technical staff for maintenance and support purposes only. We implement strict access controls and all our staff are bound by comprehensive NDAs.

Yes. This is covered by our Enterprise On-Premise model. We package the solution (Docker/Kubernetes containers) for deployment within your own perimeter, giving you total data sovereignty.

We do not impose hard caps that shut down the service. Your monthly infrastructure fee covers a baseline volume of interactions (defined in your contract). If you exceed this volume, the system continues to function perfectly, and we simply apply a pre-agreed overage fee for the additional traffic. It is a "pay-as-you-grow" model, ensuring you never miss a lead due to arbitrary limits.

The system is designed to absorb it. Because we utilize serverless and containerized cloud architecture, resources are allocated dynamically. Whether you have 10 visitors or 1,000 simultaneous users, the response time remains stable.

The technical generation of the BOM and Quote happens in milliseconds. However, the total user journey - from the first "Hello" to the final proposal - typically lasts between 2 to 12 minutes. The duration depends entirely on the complexity of your product and the depth of the "Interviewer" agent's questions. This is a massive improvement over the traditional 3-7 day turnaround.

Yes. The system is monitored continuously and designed for high availability. This allows you to capture qualified leads and generate complex quotes during weekends, holidays, or from time zones where your engineering team is offline.

We can employ Horizontal Autoscaling as an add-on. When our monitoring detects a surge in concurrent sessions, the infrastructure automatically spins up additional instances of the agent containers to handle the load. Once traffic normalizes, it scales back down. You don't need to notify us in advance of marketing campaigns - the system adapts automatically.

Yes. Because the interaction is structured (Introduction → Needs Analysis → Technical Selection → Budget → Contact), we can pinpoint exactly where you lose engagement. For example, if 40% of users leave when asked about "Budget," we might advise moving that question to a later stage in the flow.

Yes. All data belongs to you. We can provide raw data exports (CSV/JSON) or set up API pipelines to feed your data warehouse. Note: If your internal BI system requires a specific non-standard schema, we may need to perform some data mapping/adaptation work during integration.

Yes. You have a complete historical audit trail. You can review decisions made last week, last month, or last year. This is crucial for analyzing seasonal trends or auditing why specific legacy products were recommended during a past period.

Your monthly fee covers Proactive Monitoring and Standard Technical Support. We monitor the infrastructure 24/7 to ensure uptime and performance. If the system goes down or an API connection breaks due to a server error, fixing it is on us. Non-critical support (e.g., "How do I change this setting?") is also included. Content management or methodology changes are handled via separate requests.

Absolutely. We view our relationship as an evolving partnership. If you need new functionality (e.g., a complex ROI calculator, a specific visualizer, or a new integration), we treat this as a Change Request. We will scope the requirements, provide a fixed-price quote and timeline for the development, and deploy it to your instance upon approval.