The fact that artificial intelligence (AI) is seen as highly relevant for German companies is reflected in the high level of government funding for the expansion of AI-driven processes. Beyond process control, AI enables data-based diagnostics and decision support as well as chatbot-guided dialogs and innovative business models. AI can provide efficiency benefits but also insight and competitive advantages in the marketplace.
AI is somewhat amorphous to users because it is simply a catch-all term for applications that analyze data from their environment and act on it in a meaningful and learning way. AI is not one technology, but is based on different, complementary technologies.
The technical prerequisites for AI must be built up step by step. In order to introduce AI, not only must technological framework conditions be clarified, but also the corporate cultural prerequisites, a suitable regulatory framework and standards which promote trust must be created.
Driving AI is not an IT responsibility, but a management responsibility. Therefore, it is important that a good understanding of the possibilities, prerequisites and limitations of AI is developed within the management team and that AI projects are initiated. Management should also sensitize the workforce to the possibilities and implications of AI applications.