Implementation Strategy Matrix

Quick Comparison: Ways to Build with AI

Feature	Claude CLI	Claude Desktop	claude.ai	Cursor	Bolt/Lovable
Cost	Varies by plan	Varies by plan	Free + paid tiers	Paid plans	Paid plans
Where files live	Local	Local	Cloud	Local	Cloud
Internet required	Yes	Yes	Yes	Partial	Yes
GitHub integration	Yes	Yes	Manual	Yes	Built-in
Best for	Terminal users	Visual interface	Quick prototypes	Pro devs	Quick apps
Learning curve	Medium	Low	Low	Medium	Low

Decision Tree: Which Tool When?

START: What are you building?

├─ Quick prototype/demo (< 1 hour)
│  └─ Use: claude.ai Artifacts
│     ↳ Single HTML file
│     ↳ Share link instantly
│     ↳ Limitation: Stuck in cloud

├─ Personal project/learning
│  └─ Use: Claude CLI
│     ↳ Files on your computer
│     ↳ Full control
│     ↳ Learn professional workflow

├─ Serious app you'll maintain
│  └─ Use: Claude CLI + Git + GitHub
│     ↳ Version control from day 1
│     ↳ Deploy to GitHub Pages
│     ↳ Professional setup

└─ Professional development work
   └─ Consider: Cursor (privacy mode; check policy)
      ↳ More control over AI behavior
      ↳ Enterprise features
      ↳ Different pricing model

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