Knowledge
Understand software.
Guidance on business software, AI and the economic value of each option.
Explore specific topics.
Estimate value
Adjust weekly hours, hourly value and the assumed automatable share to estimate the potential annual time saving and its value.
Control data
Establish data flows, access permissions and the operating environment before implementation.
Read practical guidance
Read specialist articles on AI, automation and business decisions.
Where to start
The first question shapes the path.
Different questions call for different next steps. Start with the one that actually holds up your project.
- Fit
Do we need custom software?
If current tools almost fit, identify the precise gap and possible connections first.
- Value
Is the change worthwhile?
If the effort is noticeable but hard to size, explicit assumptions help more than a broad promise.
- Use
Can the team apply AI usefully?
If tools are already present, begin with tasks, permitted data and checkable outcomes.
Software solutions, opportunity assessment and AI training are distinct paths.
Specialist articles
All specialist articlesThe ERP Margin Paradox: Why Hybrid Machinery and Service Orders Silently Erode the P&L
Why order margins become visible late despite ERP and service tracking, and which data points should be checked first.
Training your teams on AI: where do you start?
Effective AI training starts with the team's real tasks and builds repeated practice, so the skill remains useful in everyday work.
Common questions
Standard software or custom development?
Requirements and existing systems are the starting point. A suitable standard solution may be sufficient. Custom development becomes relevant where an economically significant gap remains.
Does automation always involve AI?
No. A fixed rule can transfer data or trigger a known process without AI. AI can help with unstructured information, for example; its suitability and output quality need to be assessed for the specific use case.
How is economic value assessed?
Potential time savings, avoided errors or additional capacity are assessed using transparent assumptions and compared with development and operating costs. Freed-up time does not automatically reduce expenditure.
What should be defined before starting?
The goal, the current process, the systems and roles involved, the success criteria and who will be responsible for ongoing operation.