German Mid-Sized Companies Well-Positioned for AI Adoption
Dr. Marius Biederbach, AI Lead at German firm Stern-Wywiol Group, advocates a pragmatic approach to AI implementation, challenging notions of hesitation in mid-sized businesses.
Artificial intelligence is no longer a future topic for German mid-sized companies. Many businesses are testing initial use cases and establishing internal structures to leverage AI in their processes, products, and decision-making.
Marius Biederbach, Digital Transformation Manager & Lead AI at Stern-Wywiol Group, shares his perspective. His research indicated that digital technology, rather than threatening established companies, can strengthen their position through innovation cooperation and active integration.
Biederbach asserts that mid-sized companies are faster and more pragmatic than often believed, but the primary hurdle is data quality and availability. Other key challenges include defining structures and responsibilities, alongside IT security and data protection.
"Start, learn, and develop structures as you go – not the other way around," advises Biederbach. He cautions against waiting for the perfect model, database, or governance document, as technology evolves faster than any strategy can keep pace.
Concrete AI applications at Stern-Wywiol include internal chatbots built by employees and a scalable "Product Finder" tool consolidating product data and formulations. These aim to enhance productivity, speed up customer responses, and preserve internal expertise.