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How AI creates real added value

Intro

Johann Dornbach on successful use cases and bold decisions

At the Tech Leadership Conference 2025 at the Hasso Plattner Institute, Johann Dornbach, Vice President AI Frontier at Aleph Alpha, spoke as a keynote speaker about the potential and challenges of generative AI. In an interview with Flavia Bleuel, Head of Professional Development at the HPI d-school, on the sidelines of the conference, he explains how AI already supports complex processes in administration, industry, and regulated sectors today – and what it takes to use it effectively and responsibly.

Johann Dornbach has more than 22 years of experience in the enterprise software industry. At Aleph Alpha, he is responsible for developing innovative AI solutions tailored to complex business and administrative processes. Previously, he served as Senior Vice President of Product at Revalize, where he was responsible for global product strategy and successfully launched the SaaS PLM solution PRO.FILE 10.

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Three key insights from the conversation

1. AI creates measurable added value – when used correctly.

Dornbach emphasizes that it's not the hype that matters, but concrete, measurable results. Using practical examples, he shows how generative AI is already having a real impact today: “We were able to achieve time savings of around 80% with generative AI in approval procedures for complex investments.” Significant efficiency gains have also been achieved in industry and the banking sector – for example, through automated testing procedures in systems engineering or AI-supported compliance checks in accordance with the new EU DORA standard.

2. Humans remain responsible – “human in the loop” is a design principle.

AI must be explainable and traceable, especially in safety-relevant or regulated areas. Dornbach explains: "It is extremely important to have full transparency – through explainability and traceability. [...] The respective employee is in full control of this entire activity." Only when experts can understand, classify, and actively decide on AI results can trust – and real progress – be achieved.

3. Not every use case is a good AI use case.

A key message from the interview: Organizations must learn to identify the right use cases – and have the courage to reject unsuitable ideas. Dornbach explains: “We have to show that we really have a measurable impact – otherwise it will do more harm than good to the technology.”

Conclusion and outlook

Johann Dornbach paints a nuanced but clear picture: Generative AI will fundamentally change the world of work and many industries. It's not just about technology, but about courageous decisions, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a conscious approach to responsibility. His appeal: “We mustn't be afraid of failure. Just get started – no matter where. Small businesses, large companies, government agencies: if we don't get started, the wave will overwhelm us.”
 

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