Using artificial intelligence for innovation & efficiency

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If you Use artificial intelligence (AI) in your company,opens up far more possibilities than just optimizing work processes and quality. Implementing AI can take your company to a new level of competitiveness through automation.

The impact of AI is being felt across industries by enabling the automation of complex tasks and developing self-learning systems, e.g. for diagnostic support in healthcare or quality control in the manufacturing industry. You will find a total of over 20 further application examples further down in the article.

In this blog article, you will learn how you can use artificial intelligence in your company in a targeted manner.

Discover, what AI is and how it not only leads to increased efficiency in the context of intelligent document processing and the optimization of business processes, but also opens up new opportunities for innovation and growth. 

künstliche intelligenz nutzen definition

Using artificial intelligence - definition

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the ability of computers to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. 

This includes machine learningproblem solving, speech recognition and decision making. 

AI can be used in numerous areas, including Automation of work processespersonalization of services, predictive analytics, Public health, autonomous driving and more. 

By processing large amounts of data, AI systems are able to identify patterns and predict future events. 

The integration of AI in various sectors enables efficiency gains, improved products and services and the handling of complex problems in real time.

Here is a tabular summary of the differences between weak and strong artificial intelligence:

FeatureWeak AIStrong AI
Area of responsibilitySpecialized in certain tasks.Can handle a wide range of tasks.
AutonomyRestricted to a limited area.Ability to solve problems comprehensively.
ExamplesChatbots, speech recognition, image recognition.Theoretical, not yet realized.
künstliche intelligenz nutzen how

How does artificial intelligence work?

Artificial intelligence (AI) works by using algorithms that enable computers to analyze data, recognize patterns, draw conclusions and solve problems. Here are basic steps on how AI works:

  1. Data collection:

    AI systems require large amounts of data in order to learn and recognize patterns. This data can structured or unstructured and come from various sources.

  2. Data cleansing and preparation:

    The collected data is processed, cleansed and formatted to ensure that it is suitable for analysis.

  3. Algorithm selection:

    Depending on the nature of the problem and the type of data, appropriate Algorithms selected. These algorithms are mathematical models that enable the system to identify patterns that may indicate trends. These are, for example, seasonal patterns or changes in certain variables, which then make it possible to make predictions.

  4. Training the model:

    The selected model is trained with the prepared data. During training, the model adjusts its parameters to identify patterns in the data and learn the desired task.

  5. Validation and customization:

    The trained model is tested on validation sets to ensure that it can process not only the training data but also new, unseen data well. If necessary, the model is adapted.

  6. Use and prediction:

    After successful training and validation, the model is used to make predictions or decisions based on new, unknown data.

  7. Feedback loop (optional, e.g. Human-In-The-Loop):

    In some cases, an AI system can be continuously improved by updating it with feedback from real-world use. This enables continuous adaptation to changing conditions and new data.

It is important to note that the way AI works depends heavily on the type of problem, the data available and the algorithms used. There are different types of AI systems, including machine learning, deep learning neural networks and more, each of which has a different approach to solving problems.

künstliche intelligenz nutzen use cases

How you can use artificial intelligence - 20+ areas of application 

Below you will find over 20 areas of application in which you can use artificial intelligence.

Public health

  • Diagnostic support: AI can Medical data to support doctors in the diagnosis of diseases.
  • Personalized medicine: It enables therapies and medications to be adapted to individual patient profiles.
  • Patient monitoring: By continuously analyzing patient data, AI can detect early warning signs and improve patient monitoring.
  • Drug development: AI accelerates the drug development process by identifying potential active ingredients and optimizing dosages.

Financial services

  • Fraud prevention: AI analyzes transaction patterns to identify suspicious activity and prevent fraud.
  • Credit Risk Assessment: Artificial intelligence assesses the creditworthiness of customers based on various factors and data sources.
  • Algorithmic trading: AI-based models support algorithmic trading by quickly analyzing market data and making decisions.
  • Customer service: Virtual assistants and chatbots offer efficient and personalized customer interactions.

E-commerce

  • Product recommendations: AI analyzes user behavior to generate personalized product recommendations.
  • Personalized user experience: AI optimizes website navigation and the user experience based on individual preferences.
  • Inventory management: By analyzing sales data, AI can optimize stock levels and prevent bottlenecks.
  • Price optimization: AI helps with the dynamic adjustment of prices based on supply and demand.

Automotive industry (autonomous driving)

  • Vehicle navigation: AI-based navigation systems can use real-time data to calculate optimal routes.
  • Traffic forecasts: AI analyzes historical traffic data and current conditions to create accurate traffic forecasts.
  • Automatic vehicle control: AI enables autonomous driving by interpreting sensor data and making decisions in real time.

Speech and image recognition

  • Speech recognition: AI enables the conversion of spoken language into textwhich is used in applications such as virtual assistants and transcriptions.
  • Image recognition: AI can recognize objects, patterns or faces in images, which is used in security systems, medicine and automation.

Robotics

  • Automation of tasks: AI-controlled robots can perform complex tasks in a variety of environments, from manufacturing to logistics.
  • Collaborative robotics: AI enables robots to work safely with humans in shared workspaces.

Customer service and chatbots

  • Automated customer interaction: Use chatbots natural language processingto answer customer queries and solve problems.
  • 24/7 availability: AI-based customer service platforms offer round-the-clock support without human intervention.

Manufacturing industry

  • Quality Control: AI monitors and optimizes production processes by detecting defects and optimizing production parameters.
  • Predictive Maintenance: AI predicts the maintenance requirements of machines in order to minimize unplanned downtimes.

Cybersecurity

  • Threat analysis: AI identifies anomalies in network traffic to identify potential Cyber attacks to recognize.
  • Automated response: AI can respond to threats by adapting security systems and initiating countermeasures.

Agriculture

  • Precision Farming: AI analyses data from sensors, drones and satellites to optimize the use of resources such as water and fertilizer.
  • Harvest optimization: AI helps with the planning of harvesting measures and optimizes the time of harvest.

Education

  • Personalized learning: AI adapts learning content to the individual needs of students and offers personalized recommendations.
  • Automatic evaluation: AI supports teachers in the automatic assessment of tests and homework.

Marketing and advertising

  • Target group analysis: AI analyzes consumer behavior to create targeted marketing campaigns.
  • Automated advertising placements: AI optimizes the placement of advertisements in real time.

Energy industry

  • Network optimization: AI helps to optimize energy distribution and use in smart grids.
  • Predictive Analytics: AI forecasts energy requirements and supports resource planning.

Legal sector

Game development

  • Artificial intelligence for non-player characters: AI controls the behavior of computer-controlled characters in video games.
  • Procedural generation: AI can generate content such as levels, worlds or characters to improve the gaming experience.

Large Language Models

  • Natural language processing: Large language modelssuch as GPT-3, GPT-4, Llama 2 or Mistral-7B enable the generation of human-like text and are used in various applications such as text comprehension, translation and creative writing.

Virtual assistants and chatbots

  • Customer interaction: Virtual assistants and chatbots offer natural and efficient communication between humans and machines.
  • Scheduling and provision of information: Virtual assistants can arrange appointments, provide information and automate tasks.

Search engines

  • Search algorithm: AI-based search engines use complex algorithms to deliver relevant and personalized search results.
  • Semantic search: AI improves search by understanding meaning and context.

Cyber security

  • Threat detection: AI monitors networks for anomalies and detects potential security threats.
  • Behavioral analysis: AI analyzes the behavior of users and systems to identify suspicious activity.

Fraud detection

  • Transaction monitoring: AI analyzes transaction patterns to detect fraudulent activity in real time.
  • Behavioral analysis: AI identifies unusual behavior of users or devices to detect potential fraud.

Mobility

  • Traffic control: AI optimizes traffic flow and reduces congestion through adaptive traffic signal control.
  • Route optimization: AI-based navigation systems offer optimal routes based on real-time traffic data.

Purchasing

  • Personalized recommendations: AI analyzes shopping behavior and offers personalized product suggestions.
  • Inventory optimization: AI helps retailers to manage their stock levels and minimize shortages.

Marketing and sales

  • Lead Generation: AI identifies potential customers by analyzing behavioral data.
  • Customer loyalty: AI supports personalized marketing campaigns to strengthen customer loyalty.

These examples illustrate the wide range of possible applications of artificial intelligence in various industries and areas of everyday life.

Limits of the AI application

In certain scenarios, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning reach their limits due to the complexity of human capabilities and the dynamics of the real world. 

These are a few examples that illustrate the contexts in which AI may not be ideally suited:

Unpredictable or unstructured environments

Example: Search and rescue missions in the event of natural disasters: 

In situations such as earthquakes or floods, which can change quickly, rescue teams need the ability to adapt flexibly. Human decision-makers can adapt their tactics on the fly, while AI systems may struggle to deal with the complexity and unpredictability of such situations.

Areas that require human empathy

Example: Nursing and healthcare: 

Human empathy is essential when caring for patients, especially those with serious diagnoses. The emotional support and empathy of nursing staff go beyond purely functional care, which AI may not be able to provide in this context.

Creative processes and originality

Example: Artistic creations: 

In art and creativity, whether in painting, music or literature, the emphasis is often on originality and personal expression. Creative processes are strongly influenced by individual experiences and emotions, and the ability to innovate and express emotions remains a uniquely human characteristic.

Moral and ethical decisions

Example: Ethics in medicine: 

Complex ethical considerations are required when making decisions about medical treatments. Human doctors and nurses must consider individual values and beliefs in order to make appropriate decisions in line with patients' needs.

Areas with limited resources

Example: Rural healthcare: 

In remote areas with limited resources, the use of advanced AI technologies can be difficult due to infrastructure problems and financial constraints. Simple, low-cost solutions and the direct deployment of specialized personnel could be more effective here.

Risks and benefits

Here is a brief summary of the risks and benefits of artificial intelligence in tabular form:

AspectRisksBenefits
Efficiency and automation- Job losses due to automation- Increasing efficiency in processes
Privacy and security- Misuse of personal data- Improved security measures
Ethics and bias- Unconscious reinforcement of prejudices- Possibility of creating fair systems
Dependence on technology- Default risks and technological dependency- Innovation and progress in various areas
Lack of transparency- Opaqueness of decision-making processes- Improved transparency and explainability
Changes in the labor market- Shift in work tasks and requirements- Creation of new job opportunities
Complexity and costs- High implementation costs and resource requirements- Long-term cost savings through efficiency gains
Lack of ethical standards- Lack of uniform ethical guidelines- Progress in the development of ethical standards
Social impact- Inequalities in the accessibility of AI- Potential for solving social challenges

You can find out more about the opportunities and risks of AI in the study by Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) "The Rise of Artificial Intelligence: Future Outlook and Emerging Risks".

Using artificial intelligence based on use cases

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Use Case 1 - Automated document processing in finance

Problems:

At Finance there are a large number of documents such as invoices, contracts and payment advice notes that have to be processed manually. This is time-consuming, error-prone and leads to delays.

Solution with AI:

The implementation of a tool such as Konfuzio, an AI platform for intelligent document processing, enables the Automated extraction of relevant information from various document types

The AI automatically recognizes and interprets texts, tables and structures, which leads to a significant increase in efficiency. You can integrate the AI software seamlessly into existing financial systems.

Examples:

  • Intelligent document extraction: Konfuzio offers advanced AI algorithms for extracting information from unstructured documents. The analysis function of texts, tables and other data structures is integrated in Konfuzio to efficiently identify and extract relevant information.
  • Automated categorization: The platform enables the automatic categorization of documents based on their content. This makes it easier for you to organize and access information by classifying documents according to their purpose or content.
  • Customizable workflows: Konfuzio offers the flexibility to customize workflows. You can create your own individual workflows to meet your company's specific requirements and processes. This allows you to integrate Konfuzio seamlessly into existing business systems.

Use Case 2 - Autonomous vehicles and traffic control

Problem:

Traffic congestion, accidents and inefficient traffic flows are challenges in road traffic.

Solution with AI:

Artificial intelligence can be used in autonomous vehicles to analyze traffic data in real time and automatically calculate optimal routes. 

It also ensures precise traffic control through intelligent traffic light systems. This leads to safe and efficient traffic conditions.

Examples:

  • Autonomous vehicles: Companies like Tesla develop AI algorithms for self-driving cars. The AI interprets environmental data, traffic signs and other vehicles in order to navigate autonomously through traffic.
  • Traffic flow optimization: In cities like Singapore AI systems are used to analyze traffic data and adjust traffic lights in real time. This minimizes congestion and improves traffic flow.
  • Accident prevention: AI-based systems analyze accident patterns and warn vehicles in good time to prevent accidents. Examples of this include systems from companies such as Mobileye.

Use Case 3 - Healthcare - Diagnostic support

Problem:

Accurate diagnosis of diseases often requires a lot of time and expertise, which may lead to delays in treatment.

Solution with AI:

Artificial intelligence is used in medical imaging to analyze disease patterns.

Tools such as IBM Watson for Oncology, for example, support oncologists in identifying types of cancer. This enables faster diagnoses and personalized treatment plans.

Examples:

  • IBM Watson for Oncology: This system analyzes medical literature, patient records and clinical trials to assist oncologists in making cancer treatment decisions.
  • DeepMind's AI for eye diseases: DeepMind has developed an AI that analyzes retinal scans and can detect eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration at an early stage.
  • PathAI: PathAI uses AI algorithms to analyze pathology images to help pathologists diagnose diseases such as cancer.

Use Case 4 - Energy efficiency in building management

Problem:

Manual monitoring and control of energy consumption in large building complexes is often inefficient and leads to unnecessarily high operating costs.

Solution with AI:

Artificial intelligence is being integrated into building management systems to monitor and optimize energy consumption. 

By analysing sensor data and behavioural patterns, the AI automatically controls heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems to minimize energy consumption. 

This allows you to optimize energy efficiency and save costs.

Examples:

  • AI-based energy monitoring platforms: These systems use artificial intelligence to monitor and control energy consumption in buildings and industrial plants. They analyze data collected from a large number of IoT devices collected to identify patterns and maximize energy efficiency. Such platforms can help to reduce energy consumption by identifying inefficient processes and making suggestions for improving energy efficiency.
  • Dynamic energy management systems: Some solutions integrate advanced AI algorithms to analyze energy demand in real time and dynamically adapt to this demand. This can be particularly useful in buildings and industrial facilities where energy consumption varies greatly. By adapting to current demand, such systems help to avoid energy waste and reduce operating costs. One example of the application of IoT and AI in this context is the smart grid. Smart grids are intelligent power grids that use IoT devices and AI to monitor energy consumption in real time, predict shortages and integrate renewable energy sources more efficiently.
  • Platforms for predictive analysis and machine learning: These technologies, e.g. the Building Energy Management System (BEMS) or building management system. These systems use predictive analytics and machine learning to predict future patterns in energy consumption. They are used to optimize building management. By using predictive analytics and machine learning, these systems can predict future patterns in energy consumption and make appropriate adjustments to heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. This not only helps to reduce energy consumption, but also to improve the comfort of building users.

Conclusion - future prospects

The use of AI in various industries, from healthcare to finance, is revolutionizing the way we work. 

Despite current successes, the development of AI is only just beginning - the prospects for the future are promising. With continuous advances in machine learning and data science, you will witness an exponential development of AI applications. 

While the focus today is on intelligent document processing and autonomous vehicles, the potential capabilities of AI are still beyond our imagination. For example, they could augment human capabilities and help us to overcome previously unsolved challenges. However, this is just an assumption.

The strategic integration of AI will continue to have a significant impact on the economy and society, and it is up to you to shape and use this technology responsibly.

Do you have questions about the use of artificial intelligence in your company? Send us a message. One of our experts will get back to you as soon as possible to show you how Konfuzio can provide solutions for the implementation of artificial intelligence that are specifically tailored to your requirements. 









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