Companies are increasingly using digital technologies to network and optimize production, processes and products. The networking of devices, vehicles and machines in the Internet of Things provides valuable data in real time. With AI, companies can use this IoT data to improve efficiency, react more quickly to market changes, get to know their customers better and create new revenue opportunities.

The year 2024 is strongly characterized by the growing awareness of sustainability and social responsibility. As a result, issues such as environmental protection, climate change and the strengthening of human and labor rights are becoming more relevant to business. Legislation is gradually obliging companies to be ESG-compliant. Data obtained through IoT and analyzed by AI provides information on where energy and resources can be saved in the production process and how ESG criteria can be effectively implemented.

The increasing digitalization of our world poses new risks and challenges for companies, employees and society as a whole. The security of digital identities and infrastructures is the focus here. The threat of cyber attacks is omnipresent. Zero-trust networks, encryption technologies and intrusion detection systems protect - and are supplemented by AI: it recognizes anomalies that indicate a cyber attack much faster than humans.

Many work-related topics are currently being discussed, from the shortage of skilled workers to a possible four-day week and more flexible working models. Work-life blending is merging work and living spaces, and new concepts of collaboration are emerging. Virtual offices and the metaverse are becoming increasingly relevant as places of work. Artificial intelligence will change some job profiles; AI can take over repetitive and time-consuming tasks and relieve employees. The attractiveness of employers in the "war for talent" depends largely on how they anticipate the modern world of work within the company.