Artificial intelligence (AI) already plays a central role in industrial production processes—whether in predictive maintenance, quality assurance through image processing, or the optimization of complex manufacturing workflows. However, the growing deployment of data-driven systems affects not only efficiency and flexibility but also the working conditions and social dynamics within companies.

As part of the innovation competition at the AI Production Network Augsburg this research project aims to develop practical recommendations, positive examples, and checklists for the responsible use of AI based on qualitative expert interviews with employees of the participating companies. Existing initiatives and best practices will be made visible in order to derive hands-on recommendations for action. These are intended to serve as a guide for other companies to take social aspects, equal opportunities, and equity into account right from the planning and implementation stages of AI in production.

Project duration: May 2025 — July 2026