Mr Schoop, why are the two online certification courses particularly relevant today?

The need to address digital transformation is greater today than when the courses were developed in the 2010s. The pandemic acted as a significant catalyst: Many companies have recognised how crucial professional transformation management is for collaboration and business success.

Why is change now more important than ever?

AI is change. Without transformation, successful AI utilisation is impossible. AI accelerates developments and increases pressure on processes and organisations. Companies can only benefit if employees understand and actively shape these changes. That is why people, technology, and organisation must be considered together – otherwise, innovation will fizzle out.

What specific role does innovation play in this?

Innovation is often linked with AI today, be it with new products, services, or more efficient processes. AI speeds up research and information preparation, benefiting crafts, SMEs, and service providers alike. However, secure and data protection-compliant use is crucial: Companies should establish clear rules to protect confidential data. Even without AI, processes can be streamlined through digital automation, for example, via structured workflows or automatically generated documents.

How companies benefit from the courses

How can companies ensure a secure and sensible entry into the use of AI?

Many companies are faced with the question of how to introduce AI in a structured and responsible way. Many organisations start with tools such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot – both of which are extensively used in the online certification courses. Fundamentals like effective prompting (formulating clear instructions) and understanding the potentials and risks are central. Participants gain practical experience in group work and develop a secure, everyday handling of AI. At the same time, all tasks in the online certification courses can also be completed without AI – important for businesses where AI use is not yet permitted.

How has the "Digital Change Manager" been further developed with regard to AI?

AI is the most significant driver of change in our time. Digital automation is transforming processes, business models, and services – challenging employees to experiment with new work methods and redistribute responsibilities. These changes affect daily business in crafts, SMEs, and industry alike. Practical scenarios demonstrate how companies can structure such changes, promote acceptance, and support teams effectively.

These companies can benefit from the courses

Who benefits from these formats?

Virtually every sector: crafts, services, and industry. At Germany's high-wage location, innovation and quality leadership are crucial. The applications are diverse: from craftsmen with online shops to industrial companies leveraging automated processes for higher returns, to service providers offering AI-supported customised advice. The key is to transfer digital tools into everyday work in a structured and practical way.