ChanGe | ChanCe

Turning to intelligence: AI as the motor of digitalisation

he cover image for the summary of the Annual Report in this issue was produced – as it was last year – with the aid of cutting-edge AI technology, and highlights Koenig & Bauer’s transformation from a traditional press manufacturer to an agile technology company. While last year the focus was directed at ‘Packaging of the future’, this issue places a futuristic Rubik’s Cube at its centre that reveals a clever twist upon closer examination: just a small turn and the word ‘Change’ is transformed to ‘Chance’ – a symbolic reminder that transformation and opportunity are inextricably linked. But the cube doesn’t stop at just once chance – the more it’s turned, the more new chances and changes come to light. And this is exactly how artificial intelligence is opening up more and more new potential and new perspectives. This visual effect is emblematic of Koenig & Bauer’s philosophy: change is the new constant in the history of a company that has been thriving on new challenges, driving innovation and actively seizing opportunities for more than 200 years.

Koenig & Bauer has firmly embedded the digital transformation in its corporate strategy ‘Exceeding Print’, with the express aim of becoming even more digital. In doing so, artificial intelligence will play a key role and continue to evolve in step with the rapid technological progress being made. Koenig & Bauer has been quick off the mark in creating the infrastructure required for the use of AI and is actively promoting further and advanced training of employees in this area. This means that Koenig & Bauer is not only developing groundbreaking technologies but also ensuring that the team can consistently keep pace with the latest developments and continue acquiring new skills.

One of the tools that employees are using to make their work more efficient and more productive is Google Gemini. This is a powerful AI tool that covers diverse application areas, such as the optimisation of design processes. Automated layout recommendations and image analyses facilitate creative concepts and accelerate the design process. Content creation also profits from the use of AI: text suggestions facilitate the preparation of documentation and communications, and help generate consistent and precise content. One particularly practical feature is its ability to automatically summarise extensive reports or regulations. The information that is relevant is extracted, key statements are highlighted and data is converted into clearly laid-out tables and diagrams.

All these measures go hand in hand with consistent data protection. The latest encryption technologies and strict security guidelines ensure that sensitive customer data and internal information are given the best possible protection.

Koenig & Bauer is using artificial intelligence externally as well as internally, and the technology is being successfully utilised in a range of business areas. After all, digital technologies have the potential to revolutionise the way printed products are designed, produced and experienced.

For customers, myKyana opens up a virtual gateway to the company’s world of digital products by combining high-performance presses with the latest digital technologies.

Customers can use myKyana to access the continually growing suite of data-based and AI-based products and services directly. The productivity tools that are integrated into myKyana allow every aspect of the production process to be optimised – regardless of which technology is used to print on any particular substrate. Intelligent data handling and automated processes in a seamless end-to-end workflow will enable print and packaging manufacturers to become faster, more flexible and more efficient.

One particular highlight found in myKyana is the Kyana Assist digital assistant. 

The very first AI chatbot in the printing industry, it enables Koenig & Bauer customers to interact with it around the clock and receive direct support without having to wait. This intelligent tool means that users will no longer need to spend time leafing through press manuals to find the right information. The generative artificial intelligence will find and communicate press-specific knowledge, offer potential solutions for troubleshooting and provide precise instructions on maintenance – all in real time and multiple languages.

The performance capability of this digital assistant was demonstrated live at the Annual General Meeting 2024 by CEO Dr Andreas Pleßke and by Sandra Wagner, head of the Digital Unit. It focused on a press operator at a Vietnamese customer who noticed that there were discrepancies in colour values in print products, and wished to have these values recalibrated. Uncertain about the exact process described in the training course, the customer turned to the chatbot for help. Not only did it provide detailed instructions on calibration, but it also translated the proposed solution directly into Vietnamese – an example of how digital intelligence is simplifying work processes and providing support globally.

I assumed another noteworthy role at drupa 2024, when it introduced itself personally to the audience as a virtual co-host. It answered technical questions in real time, explaining complex processes and illustrating how artificial intelligence is raising customer interaction to a whole new level. This solution allows Koenig & Bauer to show how digital innovations are revolutionising service and paving the way for a networked and more efficient future.

Faster access to information, automation of routine tasks and data analysis are making everyday work easier. This can help increase not only levels of job satisfaction, but the efficiency of the company overall. AI is expected to play a key role in many different areas in the future, from customer care and training to research and development.