The added value of AI for your business

From Eugen Schäfer, CEO & CIO DevFuture GmbH

When I talk to decision makers, I often hear the same questions: “What real added value does AI bring us? ” or “Is it really worthwhile for my company? ”

My clear answer: Yes — when AI is used strategically.

In recent years, I have been able to accompany numerous companies on their journey into the digital future. I have seen how artificial intelligence profoundly changes business models, increases efficiency potential and relieves managers. Let me summarize the six key dimensions in which AI today creates real and sustainable added value.

1. Financial impact

AI is a real value driver. Companies that consistently use AI increase their turnover, reduce costs and change their cost structures sustainably.

Studies show that even a moderate increase in AI adoption is already measurable EBIT effects produces. Other research shows that AI not only increases profit margins but also improves the overall rating of companies. For me, this is a clear signal: Anyone who ignores AI risks market share in the long term — anyone who cleverly integrates it secures sustainable competitive advantages.

2. Operational efficiency

AI is not only changing the figures on the balance sheet, but also the way we work.

In projects, I see that AI-supported tools speed up processes, drastically reduce turnaround times and relieve employees of monotonous tasks.

For example, a bank was able to automate hundreds of thousands of document reviews — in seconds instead of months.

For me, this is the basis of a agile and sustainable organization: less frictional losses, more speed and more focus on the essentials.

3. Strategic competitiveness

AI is not just efficiency — it is transformation.

I see how companies are using AI to develop completely new business models, open up additional revenue streams and relieve managers of routine work. This creates space for value creation, innovation and — a point that is personally important to me — Talent development.

When we give leadership teams more time through AI, they can focus on people, innovation, and long-term strategies—instead of sinking into Excel spreadsheets.

4. Diverse fields of application

AI has its greatest benefit where value is created. In my projects, I see four areas in particular that benefit enormously:

• ‍marketing & sales: personalized customer approach, more precise demand forecasts.
• ‍Service & Support: intelligent chatbots and assistants that are available 24/7.
• ‍IT & infrastructure: Predictive maintenance, monitoring and automation.
• ‍Product development: faster prototypes, generative models, new features.

The decisive factor: AI is not a selective tool, but a Cross-cutting issue, which generates value across the organization.

5. Effects on the workforce

I often hear the concern: “Is AI taking jobs away from my employees? ”
My experience: AI is not a job killer, but a transformation engine.

Yes, roles are changing — and that's a good thing. Routine activities disappear, new roles arise. Companies that invest in retraining and continuing education today will be the winners tomorrow. Because AI only works sustainably if the workforce is involved.

I experience: Employees who understand how AI works and what benefits it has develop new energy and motivation.

6. Successful implementation & scaling

The full benefits do not come from individual experiments, but from a clear strategy.
I recommend to every company:

• A roadmap with clear priorities and goals.
• ‍KPIsthat make success measurable.
• ‍Dedicated teams, which are responsible for and scale AI.
• ‍Trainings for all roles — from developer to manager.
• ‍Iterative approach: start small, learn quickly, scale big.

This not only creates short-term success, but sustainable value creation.

My conclusion

In my opinion, AI is one of the most important levers for company growth today. She creates financial strength, operational efficiency, strategic benefits and motivated employees.

Anyone who takes AI seriously not only secures competitive advantages — they actively shape the future of their company.