OpenAI Assistants API in production: what to expect

Review of real-world use: Pros: Tool and file state management, threads abstract away boilerplate, consistent function calling, good for quick prototypes. Cons: Less control over low-level orchestration, migration friction if you outgrow abstractions, vendor lock-in concerns. Tips: Keep a thin adapter layer so you can swap orchestration if needed. Use server-side traces and your own cache. Validate tool outputs strictly. Verdict: Great for speed to market; build with portability in mind.