From Early AI Tools to True Transformation
Artificial intelligence is transforming not only individual tasks but, increasingly, entire companies. But how does one make the transition from initial AI tools to a sustainable transformation? In the second episode of “shift – Das Signal im Rauschen,” Balz Zürrer speaks with Marco Denzler, CEO of Online Group Switzerland, about “AI First,” new job profiles, and the crucial role of people.
AI has long since become part of everyday life. It helps us search for information, plan vacations, program, and even answer very personal questions. For Marco Denzler, one thing is clear: This development goes far beyond a short-term technological trend. Artificial intelligence will change the way people work, learn, and make decisions.
In the second episode of the podcast “shift – Das Signal im Rauschen” he talks with Balz Zürrer about the impact this development is having on companies and why, despite rapid progress, we’re still just at the beginning.
From Business IT Specialist to CEO Switzerland
Marco Denzler has been active in the Microsoft partner ecosystem for about 25 years. As a business IT specialist and experienced leader, he has held various management and C-level positions. Today, as CEO Switzerland, he leads Online Group’s Swiss operations.
His motivation has remained the same over the years: Technology should not be an end in itself, but rather make a tangible contribution to the company’s success. In doing so, he combines technological possibilities with business requirements and the needs of the people who work with the new solutions.
During the interview, Marco Denzler also looks back on his own history with the Online Group. Their collaboration ultimately grew out of a long-standing relationship as a client and partner. He was particularly drawn to the opportunity to actively help shape the company and, together with the existing team, usher in the next phase of its development.
“AI First” is, above all, a matter of mindset
The Online Group describes itself as an “AI-first” company. What at first sounds like a technological claim is, for Marco Denzler, first and foremost a matter of attitude.
“AI First” doesn’t just mean developing AI solutions for customers. Artificial intelligence should also be used as a matter of course in our own daily work: in development, consulting, back-office operations, and marketing. Employees should independently explore new possibilities, gain experience, and continuously improve their work.
This requires more than just providing new tools. Companies must create an environment in which curiosity, learning, and experimentation are explicitly encouraged. At the same time, a solid technical foundation remains important. Even as AI takes on more and more tasks, we still need people who can interpret, verify, and responsibly apply the results.
Many companies are still in the early stages of experimentation
Swiss companies have now largely recognized the importance of AI. Nevertheless, Marco Denzler observes a significant gap between their general willingness to adopt it and its actual implementation.
Many organizations are providing initial tools or carrying out individual pilot projects. What is often still missing is the connection to actual business processes. Where should AI make a measurable contribution? Which processes should be changed? And what skills do employees need to make this happen?
“It starts with expertise and change – with people. As a knowledge-based nation, Switzerland must take a proactive approach to AI.”
Marco Denzler
CEO, Switzerland | Online Group
Marco Denzler continues to see a great need for action, particularly when it comes to expertise. AI is evolving so rapidly that one-time training sessions are not enough. Companies must continuously invest in their employees’ skills and in supporting the transition. Without this foundation, existing technologies often fall far short of their potential.
A change on the scale of the Internet
For Marco Denzler, there is no question that AI is here to stay. He compares the significance of this development to the Internet and believes it could have an even greater impact.
At the same time, he warns against having unrealistic expectations for short-term results. While there are already numerous tests, use cases, and production applications, However, only a few companies have been truly transformed by AI so far. The decisive changes will only become apparent once AI is no longer viewed as an additional tool but is consistently integrated into processes, business models, and collaboration.
This does not necessarily mean cutting existing jobs. Especially in Switzerland’s small and medium-sized enterprises, AI can help them accomplish more with a limited workforce, make knowledge more accessible, and use the freed-up capacity for value-adding tasks.
Listen to the second episode of “shift” now
The conversation with Marco Denzler offers a practical perspective that balances the excitement surrounding technological innovation with the realities of business. It explores the opportunities presented by AI, as well as training, a willingness to embrace change, corporate culture, and the responsibilities of leaders.
The second episode of “shift – Das Signal im Rauschen” is now available on Spotify and YouTube.
