Conference Agenda

Abstract: With the emergence of large language models such as ChatGPT, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) has become firmly established in both private and business contexts. The use of AI applications is now considered a decisive factor for companies’ competitiveness. Logistics and supply chain management (SCM) offer promising areas of application in this context. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in particular, face the challenge of identifying suitable fields of application and successfully integrating AI into their existing business processes due to limited resources.

This paper aims to develop an AI implementation model that supports SMEs in identifying suitable application areas in logistics and SCM and adopting them in a structured way.

First, expert interviews are conducted to identify requirements for an AI implementation model for SMEs in SCM and logistics with regard to technology, organization, and environment. Subsequently, an extensive literature analysis is undertaken to compare existing AI and digitalization implementation models against these requirements. The analysis shows that although many models exist, they often lack a specific focus on AI and do not sufficiently address the previously identified requirements.

Based on these findings, an AI implementation model is developed that systematically integrates organizational conditions and implementation measures considering the environment SMEs are operating in. The model structures the implementation process into six phases with several sub-steps, which are carried out iteratively. Finally, the AI implementation model is validated with practice partners.

The model presented in this paper supports SMEs in SCM and logistics by providing a practical, phase-based approach to AI implementation. It supports organisations in evaluating AI use cases, prioritizing them, and implementing them.