Alfa Laval Ready to Embrace AI Technology

How can we use AI in our everyday work? 

That is the question currently on the agenda at Alfa Laval, Kolding’s largest company. The organisation is constantly focused on how the latest technology can help solve tasks more easily and intelligently. 

As a result, there was little delay between idea and action when two employees, Jane Bohl Andersen and Martin Stigel Mejborn, became aware of the course Application of Artificial Intelligence. The course is offered as a continuing professional development programme at the IBA International Business Academy in Kolding. 

“Automation plays a significant role in our work. We are therefore interested in learning more about how technology can help us streamline our routines. So when we discovered that the IBA was teaching the subject right here in Kolding, it was an obvious opportunity to sign up,” Jane says with a smile.

At Alfa Laval, Jane and Martin work in the Marketing and Digital Experience department, where the focus is on B2B sales. The company’s business customers can log into a webshop and access digital versions of the products in which they are interested. 

Jane and Martin explain that AI has so far been introduced in small steps. However, both are convinced that this will change very quickly. 

Their department manager, Tina Justesen, shares exactly the same view: 

“At Alfa Laval, we strive to remain curious about new technology. It is a strategic priority. When it comes to AI, we must be willing to embrace the technology and gain our own experience with it. That is why I am delighted that Jane and Martin have completed further education at the IBA, as it means we are bringing more knowledge into the organisation that everyone can benefit from.”

Practical solutions for everyday challenges

The Application of Artificial Intelligence course runs over eight teaching days. A strong emphasis is placed on linking theory with practice, as the intention is for the technology to help solve real-world tasks from everyday working life. This was also reflected in the final projects that Jane and Martin submitted at the end of the programme.

Jane used artificial intelligence to design her own digital wayfinding guide for Alfa Laval, a company with an extensive site, a maze of corridors, and numerous departments and meeting rooms. Martin chose a different approach. He created a customised ChatGPT solution capable of instantly explaining the countless abbreviations used in everyday conversations at Alfa Laval. The solution is both convenient and time-saving, Martin explains: 

“You might be sitting in a meeting where an abbreviation is used that you do not recognise or cannot quite remember. You can simply look it up on your mobile phone or computer. It immediately tells you what the abbreviation stands for and also provides a brief description of the product or unit,” Martin explains.

AI frees up time and resources

Both Martin and Jane explain that their AI solutions are among the practical, low-hanging opportunities that can make everyday work a little easier. However, following their studies at the IBA, they are convinced that artificial intelligence will have a much broader impact on the large organisation. 

“Generative artificial intelligence is the way forward. The technology will help us streamline many of our workflows. It is an exciting process, and it will free up a great deal of time and resources, allowing us to focus on developing our products and services,” says Jane.