How do German companies use generative artificial intelligence (AI)?

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) will profoundly change the way companies operate and create value in the future. How specifically is the German economy already utilising the potential of this development? We asked this question to more than 280 decision-makers from various sectors for our study "Generative AI in the German economy", which will run until summer 2024. The results underline the great importance of the topic of generative AI, make it clear that it is not just a hype and also reveal major differences between companies in terms of their approach and the development of their level of maturity:

• Eight out of ten companies are actively working on a strategy for generative artificial intelligence.
• The use of AI is predominantly viewed positively by companies:
  • Just under 70 per cent hope for increases in turnover,
  • 65 per cent expect cost reductions through greater efficiency and
  • 55 per cent hope for more productive employees.
• More than 50 per cent of companies are planning to significantly increase their investments in generative AI.
• 55 per cent of companies assume that employees will have to adapt their way of working in connection with artificial intelligence. However, only just under 40 per cent feel adequately prepared for the necessary training.
• Many of the companies still see a clear need for action in the future:
  • A good 60 per cent do not consider themselves well prepared for the impact of the EU AI Act,
  • less than ten per cent have a complete governance model.

• Get to grips with AI technology and corresponding digital developments at an early stage. Define your ambitions and establish an overarching strategy for generative AI.
• Determine your AI maturity level, use external support and build up digital expertise in relation to artificial intelligence. Harmonise ambitions and maturity level with your overarching corporate strategy.
• Develop a clear technology strategy for the use of AI. Consider a centralised and digital AI platform for this. Also ensure the development of tailored training programmes and information for defined target groups.
• Implement a governance framework for AI systems. Set up an interdisciplinary ethics committee and a dynamic risk management system focussing on artificial intelligence.

Our experts provide all the results of the survey and corresponding analyses in our study "Generative AI in the German economy". This will be repeated on an ongoing basis in future in order to closely monitor the rapid developments in this area.