The past few weeks have been all about artificial intelligence. Two key events demonstrated the diversity of current discussions around AI and highlighted the importance of focusing both on strategic direction and practical use cases. The AI Experience Days 2025 in Cologne delivered a full day of hands-on insights, while the KI.NRW gathering in Bochum emphasized security, robotics, and industrial applications.
In Cologne, the spotlight was on how companies can meaningfully integrate AI into their processes. Particularly impressive were the showcased use cases in automation and sales. SAP presented “Jule,” a solution tailored for enterprise environments that illustrates how AI can streamline workflows. The program was further enriched by the Tech Value Map and the new study Performance Perspectives 2025, offering executives clear guidance for investment and prioritization. A central topic was the EU AI Act and the discussions made it clear: this isn’t just about regulatory theory, but about concrete steps companies can take today to prepare.
Beyond the presentations, the event offered plenty of opportunities for exchange. Conversations with experts like Alex Dickmann provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for SMEs. Particularly exciting was the planned dialogue with the AI Village, the innovation campus for AI and robotics, and the German AI Association. And as it often happens: it’s a small world. Reconnecting with former colleagues like Benjamin Benning rounded off the day.
My takeaway from Cologne: Strategic thinking around AI creates real value. The technology is here, now it’s about using it wisely.
The KI.NRW event in Bochum took a different angle. Here, the focus was on security, connected AI systems, and industrial applications. Discussions emphasized that AI should not be viewed as an isolated tool, but as an integral part of a digital infrastructure that strengthens SMEs. Cybersecurity was a major theme. AI can act both as an attack vector and a defense mechanism, a modern game of cat and mouse. In conversations with experts like Prof. Thorsten Berger from Ruhr University Bochum, topics included integrating AI into existing systems (cloud-based or on-premises) and the strengths and weaknesses of various language models. Dialogues with Dr. Christian Temath and Thomas Lämmer-Gamp further underscored the importance of building bridges between research and practice while investing in the future.
A key question remains: How do we build trust in AI, not just in academic circles, but in the everyday work of employees?
This is exactly where the Avantgarde Co-Pilot comes in. Our solution is not hype, it’s a tool for productive use. It’s secure, scalable, and practical. Most importantly, it integrates quickly into existing processes and meets the highest standards for data sovereignty and compliance. This is especially crucial for SMEs.
In direct comparison, solutions from SMEs for SMEs are often more targeted.
The Avantgarde Co-Pilot is ready to deploy faster than many enterprise solutions and delivers real value.
Now is the time for companies to act. It’s essential to prioritize use cases that deliver measurable benefits, clarify architecture and data access, and embed security by design. Requirements from the EU AI Act must be integrated early into processes. Those who start lean, learn fast, and scale responsibly gain a clear competitive edge.
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