Holistic management task

The world of work is at a turning point: artificial intelligence (AI) is developing at a rapid pace and transforming not only processes but also entire organizational structures. Companies, public administration and institutions are currently experiencing a fundamental change that is no longer just about digitalization - it is about the productive interaction between man and machine, experience and algorithms, intuition and data intelligence.

The key driver of this transformation is the increasing use of AI systems, which are effective to varying degrees depending on the complexity of the task and existing experience in the company. In areas with a high degree of standardization, AI agents are already performing repetitive tasks completely autonomously. In more complex, knowledge-intensive fields, however, hybrid working models are emerging:

Humans work hand in hand with so-called "AI twins" - digital twins that mimic human behavior, provide suggestions, prepare decisions and ultimately relieve the workload or improve content and operations.

Skills shortage as a catalyst

The shortage of skilled workers is acting as a catalyst: companies are being forced to redistribute tasks and rethink skills with the help of technology. The "digital workforce" is growing - not through new hires, but through the targeted use of intelligent agents and helpers. The question is therefore no longer whether AI will be integrated into work, but how collaboration between human employees and digital actors can be organized efficiently and ethically.

This also gives rise to a new understanding of operational management. The traditional manager as a decision-maker and supervisory authority is being supplemented by new roles - such as the "AI orchestrator". This role operates at the interface between technology, organization and people. These AI orchestrators need to understand which AI systems can be used for what, how human and machine skills complement each other and how new processes can be established. They not only manage teams, but also digital systems - and ensure transparent, trusting collaboration between humans and machines.

Enormous potential

This makes operational management more complex, but also more strategic. It must understand technological progress, accompany cultural change and create learning spaces. It needs a clear vision and new management principles that promote self-organization, responsibility and continuous development. At the same time, the organization must be prepared to question hierarchies, break down silos and promote interdisciplinary collaboration.

It has been proven that companies that are among the digital champions have significantly stronger sales growth than those companies that have focused less on digitalization. The age of AI requires not only technological innovation, but above all organizational intelligence and courageous and transparent leadership. Companies that manage to actively shape this change can unleash enormous potential: for efficiency, for innovative strength and new operational value creation - and for a new quality of work.

Jochen Borenich, CEO CANCOM Austria