Brief study on AI in German companies: active use of technology, but need for further training

A regional study by the Bildungswerk der Baden-Württembergischen Wirtschaft e. V. (BIWE), in collaboration with the Management Analytics Research Centre, examines the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in companies in Baden-Württemberg. The findings reveal an increasing use of AI across companies in the region, but also highlight existing training needs and gaps in knowledge observed. 

Spread and use of AI

The survey is based on interviews with 195 executives and decision-makers, predominantly from industrial and manufacturing companies. A large proportion of the companies surveyed, 59%, are already actively using AI or testing relevant applications in selected processes. Many of these companies report productivity gains through the use of AI-supported processes.

The most common areas of application include, in particular, text generation (93% of respondents), translation (73%) and document verification (41%). Tools such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot and DeepL are correspondingly widespread.

Assessment of the impact on employees

Over 90% of respondents view the impact of AI on their own professional future positively. 28% feel supported by AI, whilst 63% feel secure in their professional situation and not threatened by AI. 

Guidelines and training needs

However, the brief study also reveals shortcomings in the handling of AI. Only 19% of companies have binding guidelines for the use of AI. Specific regulations on AI use exist in only 2% of companies.

The situation regarding further training within companies is problematic: 44% of respondents stated that there are no courses available to build AI skills. Only 26% of respondents reported having access to AI-specific courses. However, AI skills are necessary to enable the structured and targeted use of AI.

Recommendations for action

The study sets out several recommendations for action for businesses:

• AI should be positioned within businesses as a supportive tool. This strengthens employees’ trust in AI and thereby facilitates the introduction of AI tools and AI-supported processes.
• Businesses should begin by implementing small, measurable pilot projects involving AI, in order to demonstrate the benefits of its use and to gain internal experience.
• It is also recommended that clear guidelines for use be developed and that skills in working with AI be built up. Collaboration between humans and AI should be specifically integrated into work processes.
• Another focus is on staff development: AI skills should be systematically incorporated into training programmes and new role profiles to support the use of AI in the long term.

Further reading 

The full study is available in German, here. 

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