7 Game-Changing Steps to Future-Proof Your Agency with AI (Without Breaking the Bank)
Discover 7 actionable steps to future-proof your agency with AI. Learn how to run LLMs locally, leverage text-to-image tools, automate workflows, and stay ahead of the competition—all without breaking the bank!
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So, the other day, I was visiting my friend’s web agency—this guy has been running it for years . He’s smart, experienced, and knows his stuff. But here’s the thing: he hasn’t jumped on the GenAI train yet.
His team? Still stuck using all these old-school tools to run apps. The designers are cranking out visuals with legacy software like it’s 2010, and the marketers? Same story—they’re clueless about what’s out there in terms of AI-powered solutions. It felt like walking into a time capsule.
At first, I thought maybe it’s because of language barriers. You know, if English isn’t your first language, keeping up with tech trends can feel overwhelming. But then I realized—that’s not really an excuse anymore.
I’ve seen plenty of people in similar situations who don’t speak perfect English but still manage to learn and adapt to new AI tools. They just dive in, figure it out, and make it work. So that wasn’t the issue here.
What blew my mind even more? My friend is literally throwing money at this problem without realizing it.
He’s paying through the nose for dozens of cloud-based AI tools, but neither him nor his team actually knows how to use them.
And get this—he had no idea that he could save a ton by switching to open-source local tools or running large language models himself instead of subscribing to all these services. Like, why pay for something you’re not even using properly?
This whole situation reminded me of something I wrote about months ago after chatting with some buddies from our local AI Club. I titled it “Be A Good AI user or be replaced!” Back then, I thought the message was pretty clear: individuals need to level up their skills to stay relevant.
But now? That advice feels incomplete. It’s not just about individual skill sets—it’s bigger than that. Companies and agencies NEED to embrace an AI culture.
Hazem Abbas
But—and this is key—you can’t just flip a switch and expect everyone to magically adapt. There’s so much groundwork that needs to happen first.
Which brings us to today’s post: What do companies and agencies really need to do to catch up?
Alright, let’s break it down. Here’s how companies and agencies can step into the AI era without breaking the bank or getting overwhelmed. I’ll keep it real, simple, and practical—because honestly, these are game-changers if you do them right.
1. Run LLMs Locally
Running large language models (LLMs) locally might sound intimidating at first, but trust me, it’s worth it. Instead of paying for subscriptions to cloud-based services like ChatGPT or Claude every month, you can download open-source models like Llama, Mistral, or even fine-tuned versions that fit your needs.
The best part? You own the data—you’re not sending sensitive info to third-party servers. Plus, once set up, it’s way cheaper in the long run. No more worrying about API limits or surprise bills!
Here we covered that in several posts:
Hazem Abbas
Hazem Abbas
Hazem Abbas
Hazem Abbas
Hazem Abbas
2. Run Text-to-Image Tools Locally
If your designers are still stuck with old tools, they’re missing out big time. Running text-to-image generators locally is a total game-changer. Tools like DiffusionBee (super beginner-friendly) or ComfyUI (for more advanced users) let you create stunning visuals right on your machine. Need custom branding assets? Done.
Want unique social media graphics? Easy. And again, no recurring costs! Plus, local setups give you full control over styles and outputs, so everything feels tailored to your brand.
ComfyUI can save you a lot of time and examples but it needs an expert or advanced users .
Hazem Abbas
Hazem Abbas
Hazem Abbas
3. Text-to-Video
This one’s a bit newer but already making waves. Imagine typing a prompt and getting a fully animated video back in minutes. Tools like Runway ML, Pictory, or even local options like Stable Video Diffusion (still evolving!) can help you create videos faster than ever before.
For agencies, this means cutting down production times drastically while keeping quality high. Think explainer videos, ads, or client presentations—all done in-house, saving both time and outsourcing fees.
4. Text-to-3D Mesh
If you’re into product design, gaming, or anything 3D-related, this is where things get wild. With tools like Point-E, DreamFusion, or Shap-E, you can generate 3D models from text prompts. No need to hire expensive 3D artists for every little project anymore. Need a prototype?
Type it out, tweak it, and boom—you’ve got a model ready for rendering or printing. This opens up endless possibilities for creative projects and cuts costs significantly.
Hazem Abbas
5. AI Agents: Automate Marketing & Sales
Here’s where AI gets really exciting—building AI agents to handle repetitive tasks. Picture this: an AI agent that writes personalized emails to leads, schedules meetings, follows up with clients, or even handles customer support queries.
Platforms like AutoGPT, BabyAGI, or specialized marketing tools like Jasper and Copy.ai make this possible. Once set up, these agents work 24/7, freeing up your team to focus on strategy and creativity. It’s like having a tireless assistant who never sleeps—and honestly, who doesn’t want that?
Hazem Abbas
Hazem Abbas
6. Hire AI Experts and Skilled Users
Look, tech moves fast, and expecting your current team to figure everything out on their own isn’t always realistic. Hiring someone with AI expertise—or training existing employees—can be a lifesaver. These folks know which tools to use, how to integrate them into workflows, and most importantly, how to maximize ROI.
A single skilled AI user can save you thousands by streamlining processes, reducing errors, and finding smarter ways to get things done. Invest in talent—it pays off.
Otherwise, employee who did not upgrade themselves to be good AI users will make you broke and let you lose your rank in the market!
Hazem Abbas
7. Follow Up & Stay Updated
Lastly, don’t fall behind. New AI tools pop up almost daily, and some of them could completely change how you operate. Make it a habit to stay informed. Follow blogs, join communities (like our AI Club!), or subscribe to newsletters about AI trends.
Why? Simply because sometimes, a new tool comes along that saves you hours of manual work—or eliminates a subscription you didn’t realize you could replace.
Staying updated ensures you’re always ahead of the curve, not playing catch-up.
Wrapping It Up
These seven steps aren’t just random tips—they’re a roadmap to transforming how your agency or company operates. From running LLMs locally to automating workflows with AI agents, each step brings massive benefits: cost savings, better efficiency, and staying competitive in a world that’s moving faster than ever.
The bottom line? Adaptation starts with action. Start small, experiment, and scale as you go. Trust me, your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.
