FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
What we do, how we work, what you own and how we handle your data.
About SML
General.
What does SML do?
SML is a Hong Kong-based business consulting firm that designs and builds custom AI systems for companies — then hands them over to the client's own staff to run.
Which services are available?
AI consulting, system integration, database build and data mining, batch outreach by email and WhatsApp, CRM automation on HubSpot, and social media seeding. Each is delivered through the same five phases: Discover, PoC, Build, Handover and Care.
How is SML different?
We lead with business consulting rather than software sales, we design every system to be run by your staff, you keep your own licences and data, and a human approves every external send.
How do you handle our data and systems?
Credentials and data stay in accounts you own. We work with the minimum access needed, back up before bulk changes, document what we build, and design data handling with the PDPO (Cap. 486) in mind.
How does SML charge?
A one-off implementation fee for each scoped build, followed by an optional recurring Care Plan for new features, workflows, fixes and fine-tuning. Fees are quoted per project, on request.
Who orders the software and AI tools?
No. You hold your own AI-tool and software licences. We recommend and order the software for you, in your name.
Who runs the system after go-live?
Your staff. We train them and hand over runbooks and documentation. Your team holds admin access from day one. With a Care Plan, we keep only the access you approve, and return it when the plan ends.
Where do you work?
We are based in Hong Kong and work across HKG, SIN, BKK and TYO. Your system can work in any language, including Thai, Japanese and Russian. Our team works with you in English.
By service
Service questions.
AI Consulting
Do we have to buy a build after the consulting phase?
No. The roadmap and design are yours to keep and can be delivered by your own team or another vendor.
How long does the consulting phase take?
Timing is agreed with you.
System Integration
Which systems can you integrate?
Typically email, Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, WhatsApp Business, HubSpot, spreadsheets, accounting and document tools, plus AI model APIs.
Who holds the passwords and API keys?
You do. Accounts and credentials are opened in your name. Your team holds admin access from day one. With a Care Plan, we keep only the access you approve, and return it when the plan ends.
Database Build & Data Mining
Where does the data live?
In systems you own and control, such as your CRM or database account. SML works in them during the project and keeps only what the SOW allows.
How do you approach the PDPO for data enrichment?
We design enrichment with the PDPO (Cap. 486) in mind and only use sources you confirm you may use. We are not a law firm; your legal adviser should confirm high-risk uses.
Batch Outreach (Email & WhatsApp)
Does SML send the messages?
No. Your staff approve and send from your own accounts. SML builds and maintains the system.
Which WhatsApp provider do you use?
We work with your chosen WhatsApp Business provider; you hold the account.
CRM Automation (HubSpot)
Do we need a particular HubSpot tier?
It depends on the workflows you need. We recommend the lowest tier that covers the design and explain the trade-offs; we order it for you, in your name.
Social Media Seeding
Which platforms do you cover?
Platforms are agreed in the scope for each engagement. Common starting points are Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Xiaohongshu, Threads and X.
Will you post as us?
No. Your staff approve and publish each post from accounts you own.
Next step
Still have a question?
Email ask@smlhk.com and we will reply in writing.