Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a topic of the future for tradespeople and SMEs, but a practical tool that is already increasing efficiency and saving costs today. As Heiko Roth, CTO of EGOTEC AG, showed in a presentation at the Neckar-Odenwald District Craftsmen's Association, AI can be used profitably in small steps - for example for automated customer communication, knowledge retention or process optimisation.
Three key advantages:
- Chatbots relieve employees by answering standard enquiries (e.g. about opening hours) around the clock.
- AI-based knowledge databases secure expert knowledge and make it accessible to new employees.
- Automation saves time on tasks such as invoice verification or tenders - with efficiency gains of up to 50%.
With European hosting solutions such as lalamo.cloud, use is possible in compliance with data protection regulations. The Chamber of Skilled Crafts advises on funding opportunities, e.g. on the current programme Mittelstand-Digital Zentrum Handwerk (free advice).
Conclusion: AI is feasible, affordable and practical - ideal for companies that want to remain competitive.