This case study examines the application of artificial intelligence in a global manufacturing firm with over 55,000 employees, highlighting significant obstacles such as departmental silos and reluctance to transition from aluminum to composites. The company aims for transformation by integrating AI, but faces challenges due to inconsistent AI efforts, lack of formal training, and the need for validated materials assessments. Successful change was achieved through effective communication, educational campaigns, and a focus on showcasing the benefits of AI to engage stakeholders.

1. CASE STUDY:
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE APPLICATION IN
BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL MANUFACTURING

2. Specifications Under Review
• Number of employees: over 55,000
• Department: Artificial Intelligence Department
• Location: Worldwide. The Ionology Solution offers a two-day,
personalized seminar titled "Building an AI-enabled Business.“
• Objective: Integrating AI as the focal point of innovation.
• Result: Significant rise in AI innovation projects. Details: Utilizing AI
in the context of a worldwide manufacturing enterprise.

3.  THE CURRENT STATE OF AFFAIRS:
Technology alone does not bring about a transformation in a business; it
is the actions and decisions of people that drive this change.
Harnessing the power of technology
The heavy equipment firm in this case study, which has a prominent
position in the worldwide market, faces limitations imposed by
departmental rules, regulations, silos, and restrictions. The company is
facing issues. These obstacles hinder its ability to generate novel business
models, products, and services that can only be facilitated by Machine
Learning.

4. CONTINUE….
The materials department exhibited hesitancy in transitioning from
aluminum, their favored material, to composite materials. According to
them, there is no comprehensive international research that directly
compares both materials, despite the clear benefits of composites. The
transition would need a comprehensive overhaul of engineering, design,
legal, and compliance practices. The firm desires to undergo a
transformation, although to a limited extent.

5.  OBSTACLES:
An exceptionally proficient AI and Data Science division was established
with the purpose of modernizing the business.
• The company's data was segregated into several departments and
necessitated substantial preparation. However, the amount of AI present
in these large enterprises is not excessive.
• The business owners expressed their desire to utilize AI to "transform,"
but each of them provides different explanations when asked about the
specifics.
• AI initiatives were irregular and unplanned, relying on self-taught
business innovators.
• The heads of innovation, design, and business units have not yet
undergone formal training on the business capabilities of AI.

6.  THE ISSUE AT HAND
Novel business models are required to optimize operational
efficiencies.
There are two opportunities to establish a competitive edge and
generate additional sources of company income.
1. Transition from using aluminum to employing composite
materials. The issue stemmed from the absence of a scientifically
validated and peer-reviewed comparison of the materials in
practical applications. Consequently, there was a reluctance to
relocate items, despite the evident advantages of doing so.

7. In order to shift a portion of its production process from aluminum to
composite materials, the firm was required to develop a meticulous and
peer-reviewed materials science assessment. A significant portion of the
switching was regarded as "preventive maintenance" (PM). It would lead
to a decrease in the acquisition of components and improve the
maintenance model. Furthermore, it would also create a burgeoning
secondary market for components.

8.  THE RESOLUTION BEGIN WITH MODEST STEPS AND
EFFECTIVELY HANDLE THE TRANSITION
When comparing aluminum to composite materials, it is important to
focus on the specific areas that are closely examined by industry
authorities.
• Form an alliance of individuals who are willing to embrace change by
utilizing the tool.
• Showcase the rapidity with which precise, impartial, and
understandable insights can be achieved.
• Develop a highly visual simulation that illustrates the rationale for
transitioning from a "preventive maintenance" to a "predictive
maintenance" business model.

9.  RESULTS
 In this case study, the achievement may be attributed to both effective
communication and technological advancements.
 Individuals, while engaged in a process of transformation, exhibited
greater receptiveness. Accepting the use of simulations and
comprehending its personal consequences was crucial. After being
informed about the potential benefits of AI in business, most
executives were more approachable and willing to provide assistance.

10. REQUESTING ASSISTANCE IN THE STUDY OF IONOLOGY
Ionology offers executive education and advisory services. Ionology
started with an extensive educational campaign targeting top executives
and decision makers.
AI initiatives sometimes have a propensity to either be too ambiguous,
excessively focused on technical aspects, or created to address an issue
that lacks significance. Our consulting services included conducting a
thorough diagnostic, establishing effective communication with key
stakeholders, providing consultation on the creation of ML models,
platforms, and user experience.

11. CONCRETE MEASURES
Enlighten company proprietors and decision-makers by the utilization of
non-technical trials that directly pertain to their business predicaments.
• Conduct the activity in a classroom setting, which promotes shared
learning among the participants.
• Assemble a group of individuals who are willing to participate
collectively.
• Identify a challenge that has a compelling human narrative and aligns
with the strategic imperative.