There are currently four different options for your API journey on the Vertex AI platform:
- ML APIs: If you want to get started right away without customization try ML APIs.
- AutoML: If you need a bit more customization, bring your own data, set a budget, use a codeless interface, and AutoML delivers your predictions.
- Custom models: If you have people on your team who have AI experience and you are willing to spend some time then a custom model is for you.
- BQML: If you have data analysts on your team you can use BigQuery ML to get your predictions using familiar SQL queries.
Here is a diagram to illustrate your options:

Finally, if you have 17 minutes and want to learn more about the options described above, then watch Jeevana Hegde and Hussein Giva in this video: https://youtu.be/pZKpAai7stE