Ms Merker, many companies are already experimenting with AI tools. Where do you see the biggest challenges in moving from experimentation to productive use?

Anja Merker: Clear processes and responsibilities are often lacking. In our projects, we find that many companies have valuable data, but that it is distributed across different systems or insufficiently structured. For AI to deliver reliable results, however, it needs a structured, high-quality data foundation. Only then can artificial intelligence support companies in areas where large volumes of data need to be processed and repetitive tasks need to be carried out. Another issue is that AI is often used without coordinated rules. If employees use different tools without adequately taking data protection, data security and legal requirements into account, this can also lead to shadow AI.

What does that mean in concrete terms, and what risks does it entail?

Anja Merker: Shadow AI refers to the use of AI applications outside officially approved corporate solutions. Employees want to perform their work more efficiently and therefore turn to freely available tools. This is understandable, but it can involve risks. If confidential company data or personal information is entered into public AI systems, for example, data protection or compliance requirements may be violated. Companies should therefore not rely solely on bans. Much more important are clear guidelines, suitable approved tools and training so that employees can properly assess the opportunities and risks. This creates the basis for responsible and secure use of AI.

The Digital Product Passport is also becoming increasingly important for the textile industry. What role do data structures play in this context?

Anja Merker: The Digital Product Passport highlights how important a consistent data foundation will be in the future. Companies will need to record information on materials, supply chains, production processes and environmental indicators in a structured way and exchange it between different systems. At the same time, this data forms the basis for many AI applications. Companies that improve their data quality, create interfaces and intelligently connect information today are not only preparing for the Digital Product Passport; they are also creating the conditions for the successful use of AI. Data is therefore becoming a genuine competitive factor.

How does the Mittelstand-Digital Zentrum Smarte Kreisläufe support companies on this journey?

Anja Merker: We analyse existing processes together with the companies. Once suitable use cases have been identified, we support them with individual digitalisation road maps or assist them during the initial implementation steps. The aim is not to deploy as many technologies as possible, but to find the right solution for the specific challenge. Over the past few months, we have developed numerous demonstrators as part of various projects. These demonstrators, as well as our application projects, are available online for everyone to view. This allows companies to get to know new technologies without taking major risks and to make well-informed decisions about their own digitalisation efforts.

What recommendations would you give companies that want to take the next step now?

Anja Merker: My advice is: do not wait for the perfect starting point – just get started. Do not begin with a major AI strategy; start with a specific time-consuming task. In production, this could involve individual steps such as automated quality control or the preparation of quotations. A manageable use case is a good starting point because it quickly becomes clear whether it actually saves time, improves quality or makes work easier. Once an approved tool has been selected and simple rules have been defined, particularly for reviewing and publishing data. Companies also need someone who is not only responsible for the project but who also shares the experience gained with the team. Until the end of the year, we will continue to support companies with information events on this topic. After that, the work of our centre will initially come to an end.

What highlights can companies still look forward to before then?

Anja Merker: We are currently launching a webinar series that will show companies how to structure, connect and intelligently use their corporate data for AI. In five one-hour online sessions, we will not only provide an overview of current developments relating to the Digital Product Passport and useful approaches to data architectures. Each session will also include practical examples and present specific options for action, enabling companies to address their data infrastructure in a targeted way and establish secure data spaces. The online seminars will also provide sufficient time for active exchange between participants and speakers. Professionals and managers from the areas of sustainability, product management, marketing, sales and IT in the textile and clothing industry are particularly welcome to attend.