The integration of artificial intelligence into development processes is currently transforming the global industry by significantly improving efficiency, automation and precision. We at also use AI to some extent to make our projects leaner and more efficient. But what is the long-term perspective of this technology? Will AI really be the “game changer” in medical or device technology?
Faster and more precise through simulation and digital twins …
By using simulations and digital twins, we optimize our development cycles, which allows us to both save time and use resources more efficiently. This technology-enabled approach allows us to visualize and test products in early phases – similar to our partners at Wilddesign, who rely on generative AI and virtual reality in their Iterative Design Process to realize rapid concept tests. However, not every AI strategy is crowned with success. Many companies have high expectations for AI projects, but the reality can often be different. According to studies, about 30% of AI projects could be canceled after the proof of concept in the next few years. The reasons for this are manifold. For example, insufficient data quality, unclear objectives and high costs. These factors mean that many projects fail before they can unfold their full benefits. (Source: https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-07-29-gartner-predicts-30-percent-of-generative-ai-projects-will-be-abandoned-after-proof-of-concept-by-end-of-2025)
Some of the typical challenges in this context are:
- Poor planning: Many projects fail because they are launched without a clear strategy and without an appropriate risk assessment.
- High expectations, small results: The hoped-for results often deviate from reality.
- Cost: AI projects are often expensive, and the return on investment is difficult to prove.
Nevertheless, there are also numerous examples of successful AI projects that have demonstrably led to productivity increases and cost reductions. However, clear targets, high-quality data and patience are crucial, because the positive effects often only become apparent over time.
Despite the many advantages that AI offers, we believe that humans remain indispensable. Even though AI is considered a revolutionary technology in many ways, our engineers play an important role. They bring creativity, innovative strength and the human perspective to the development process – qualities that AI has not yet been able to replace. Especially in medical technology, ethical considerations and interpersonal decisions are of paramount importance – areas where human intelligence remains irreplaceable. Another potential area of application of AI for us could be the automated creation of software modules. By using specialized AI models, parts of our software could be developed faster and more efficiently without compromising on code quality. These models draw on extensive data sets and use proven methods – similar to prototyping with VR at Wilddesign. While AI takes over repetitive tasks, our developers can focus on the truly creative aspects of software development. We think that the best approach right now is a combination of human and artificial intelligence. This symbiosis makes it possible to use the strengths of both sides and to create a sustainable, innovative development process. Similar to our partner Wilddesign, which uses AI and VR to implement fast visualizations and design variations, we at B&W can also further improve our processes with this technology – but people always remain at the heart of the innovation. By the way: By the way, a premature termination of an AI project does not necessarily have to be considered negative. Often, this is simply part of the learning process. Especially with new technologies such as AI, it is not uncommon for a certain proportion of projects to not go as expected. It is part of the further development.
Realism and patience as the key to success
AI can revolutionize many processes, but it is not a panacea. We rely on a step-by-step integration of AI to achieve sustainable improvements. Our goal is to use AI as a tool to make work processes more efficient and creative – but we remain realistic and avoid exaggerated expectations. Patience and proper planning are the key to long-term success.
