Relay or a virtual assistant: define the work first
A virtual assistant can help an agency with a defined set of administrative tasks. The arrangement needs clear responsibilities, training, access, and review, just as any other delegated work does.
Relay is software your team can use for supported document preparation, client-file questions, and configured browser workflows. Compare the actual task and completed result. A person and a tool are different types of capacity, and an agency may use both.
Side by side
How the two paths compare
| Decision | Virtual assistant | Relay |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Agreed administrative work within permitted authority | Supported software workflows confirmed during setup |
| Instructions | Written task process, training, and escalation rules | Defined source inputs, requested result, and review steps |
| Access | Appropriate individual permissions and offboarding | Configured user and workflow access |
| Review | Check accuracy, completeness, and documented handoffs | Check source facts, draft output, and unresolved questions |
| Cost | Current provider terms plus management and review time | Current product terms plus setup and review time |
Where each fits
When Offshore VA fits
The task benefits from a person coordinating varied administrative steps.
You can provide training, a named supervisor, and clear permitted activities.
The provider arrangement fits your service hours, access requirements, and continuity plan.
Where Relay fits
The task repeatedly turns the same types of client documents into an application or proposal.
Your team wants to inspect source information and a prepared result in one workflow.
The process is defined enough to test with representative files and measure corrections.
The honest take
What we would tell a friend who runs an agency
For a useful comparison, give each approach the same permitted, representative task with the same expected output. Measure preparation time, questions raised, correction effort, and whether the next colleague can continue without reconstructing the file.
Keep relationship work and regulated decisions assigned appropriately. In either arrangement, use the access needed for the task and a documented review process. Avoid treating location or automation as a shortcut around those responsibilities.
FAQ
Common questions
Is a virtual assistant always less expensive?+
Use current terms and the actual workload. Include onboarding, supervision, review, software access, and coverage for absence or turnover. A generic hourly rate does not describe the completed-task cost.
Can a virtual assistant give coverage advice?+
Permitted activities depend on licensing, jurisdiction, role, and authority. Define the tasks and escalation process before assigning work. A job title or provider location does not establish permission.
Can Relay and an assistant work together?+
Yes, a person can use supported tools as part of an agency-approved process. The useful question is who prepares, who reviews, and who is responsible for the next action.
Does automation mean no one needs credentials?+
Do not assume that. Browser work needs an approved access and authentication arrangement. Review the actual setup and permissions for the specific workflow.
Part of the Relay comparison library. Updated 2026-07-11.
Your next step starts with one email.
Join the waitlist. We’re inviting agencies regularly and will email you when access is available.
Join the waitlist