Implementing artificial intelligence (AI) into a company's ecosystem is no longer a futuristic scenario, but a concrete reality that companies in various industries are already experiencing and shaping today. Christian Schwerdt, Senior Manager and expert for artificial intelligence at Protiviti, explains how AI can be applied and how companies can train and prepare their employees to work with this revolutionary technology.From the automation of recurring tasks to the optimisation of decision-making processes, AI offers a wide range of opportunities to increase efficiency and tap into new value creation potential. However, the introduction of this technology is also accompanied by the need to train and prepare employees accordingly.
Automation and increasing efficiency: One of the most obvious advantages of AI is its ability to automate repetitive tasks. This ranges from simple tasks such as data maintenance to more complex processes such as analysing large amounts of data. Taking over these tasks with AI allows employees to focus on more demanding and value-adding operations. At the same time, this offers companies the opportunity to partially compensate for the shortage of skilled workers.Customer service: AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants can revolutionise customer service by being available around the clock and providing instant, personalised responses to customer queries. This not only increases customer satisfaction, but also frees up employees to focus on more complex queries.Decision-making: With the ability to analyse large amounts of data and recognise patterns, AI can provide valuable insights to help decision makers formulate strategies. From market analysis to risk assessment, AI can be a powerful tool for making informed decisions.
Understand the basics of AI: The first step in preparing employees is to give them a basic understanding of AI technologies. This includes not only how the technology works, but also ethical considerations. The latter is about creating mindfulness amongst the workforce when using AI in relation to data in order to comply with regulatory requirements, but also to avoid violations of personal data protection. In addition, of course, it is also about the potential impact on one's own workplace and how the range of activities may change or be transformed.Specific training for specialist applications: Depending on the area of application of AI in an organisation, specific training programs should be developed that focus on the relevant applications and tools. Whether it is the use of AI-driven analysis tools or interaction with chatbots - employees need to know how to use these technologies effectively and what added value and benefits it offers them in their day-to-day work.Fostering creativity and problem-solving skills: In a work environment shaped by AI, soft skills such as creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to solve problems are becoming increasingly important. Training should therefore also aim to promote these skills to prepare employees to work with AI and fully exploit its potential. It is also important to master what is known as correct prompting at this point. Prompting refers to the method used to enter queries, commands, or an order into an AI tool to generate corresponding results. Prompting should not be equated with entering data into an internet search engine such as Google, as AI tools require significantly more complex and detailed information and input if the user wants to obtain a meaningful result.Continuous learning and adaptation: The landscape of AI technology is evolving rapidly. Companies must therefore promote a culture of lifelong learning to ensure that their employees stay on top of the latest technology and can adapt to new developments. There are numerous training providers that specialise in providing training in AI knowledge and skills. Choosing the right provider depends on various factors, such as the specific learning objective, the level of prior knowledge, the desired learning format (online or face-to-face) and the budget. Below are some recognised platforms and institutes that offer high-quality AI training courses:
1. LinkedIn Learning: Offers a wide range of courses in AI and machine learning that are ideal for professionals to enhance their skills.2. Coursera: Offers courses and specialisations in AI offered by leading universities and companies such as Stanford University and Google Cloud.3. Udacity: Specialised in technology-focused courses, including nanodegree programs in AI and machine learning, which have been developed in collaboration with industry experts.4. edX: A platform launched by Harvard and MIT offering a variety of AI and computer science courses from universities around the world.
1. DeepLearning.AI: Founded by Andrew Ng, one of the most prominent names in AI, DeepLearning.AI offers specialised courses in deep learning and machine learning.2. MIT Professional Education: Offers advanced courses in artificial intelligence and machine learning for professionals who want to deepen their knowledge.3. NVIDIA Deep Learning Institute: Provides hands-on training in AI and deep learning tailored to the use of NVIDIA technology.4. Simplilearn: A platform that offers professional certifications and training, including courses in AI and machine learning developed in collaboration with leading companies and universities.5. Fraunhofer Big Data and Artificial Intelligence Alliance: Offers a wide range of training courses on data science and AI.6. European Information Technologies Certification Academy: The European Academy based in Brussels offers fully online and internationally accessible programs. It is managed by the European Institute for IT Certification and sets a standard in digital skills certification.
Many local universities and technical schools also offer courses and workshops in AI. These can be particularly valuable if you value direct interaction with lecturers and fellow students. Before deciding on a training provider, it is recommended researching reviews and testimonials from previous participants, checking the course content carefully and, if necessary, taking advantage of free trial offers to ensure that the course meets one's requirements.
The introduction of AI provides organisations with the opportunity to transform their operations, gain a competitive advantage and counter the skills shortage with technology. However, this change requires comprehensive preparation of employees. Through targeted training programs and fostering a culture of continuous learning, companies can ensure that their teams are not only ready to meet the challenges of the AI era but can also play a proactive role in shaping this new era. The future belongs to those who are willing to adapt, learn and go hand in hand with AI.###Christian Schwerdt is a Senior Manager at Protiviti, a management consultancy and subsidiary of Robert Half. As an IT consultant and IT project manager specialising in enterprise architecture and artificial intelligence, the graduate in business informatics advises companies, i.e. on the integration of AI systems into their business processes.
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