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AI Provider Configuration

StratBrain uses AI services to power coaching, panel simulations, and other intelligent features. As an admin, you can configure which AI providers are used and manage their settings.

Understanding AI Providers​

What Are AI Providers?​

AI providers are the services that power StratBrain's intelligent features:

  • AI Coaching - Helps students develop answers
  • Panel Simulation - Powers panelist responses
  • Document Processing - Extracts and understands content
  • Assessment - Evaluates student responses

Available Providers​

StratBrain supports multiple AI providers:

  • Anthropic (Claude) - Advanced reasoning and conversation
  • OpenAI (GPT) - Versatile language capabilities
  • NEAR AI - Alternative provider with OpenAI compatibility

Configuring Providers​

Accessing Provider Settings​

  1. Go to Admin in the navigation
  2. Click "AI Providers"
  3. You'll see the provider configuration panel

Setting Up a Provider​

For each provider you want to use:

  1. Enable the provider - Toggle it on
  2. Enter API credentials - Your API key from the provider
  3. Test the connection - Verify credentials work
  4. Set as active - Make it the primary provider (if desired)

Managing API Keys​

API keys are sensitive credentials that should be protected:

  • Keys are encrypted when stored
  • Only admins can view or update keys
  • Keys are never shown in full after saving
  • Rotate keys periodically for security
Security Note

Never share API keys or include them in emails or messages. If you believe a key has been compromised, rotate it immediately in the provider's dashboard.

Choosing a Provider​

Considerations​

When selecting which provider to use:

FactorConsideration
CostDifferent providers have different pricing
PerformanceResponse speed and quality may vary
FeaturesSome features work better with specific providers
AvailabilityConsider uptime and rate limits

Changing Providers​

To switch the active provider:

  1. Ensure the new provider is configured and tested
  2. Set it as the active provider
  3. Monitor for any issues
  4. The change takes effect immediately

User API Keys (BYOK)​

Some configurations allow users to provide their own API keys (Bring Your Own Key):

  • Users enter their personal API key in settings
  • Their requests use their key instead of the system key
  • Useful for heavy users or those with existing accounts
  • User keys take priority over admin-configured keys

Troubleshooting​

"API Key Invalid"​

  • Double-check the key was entered correctly
  • Verify the key is active in the provider's dashboard
  • Ensure the key has appropriate permissions

"Rate Limited"​

  • Too many requests in a short period
  • Consider upgrading your provider plan
  • Wait and try again later

"Provider Unavailable"​

  • The provider's service may be experiencing issues
  • Check the provider's status page
  • Consider configuring a backup provider

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