It feels like just a few days ago when I reflected on 6 months of building ZDF Sparks. Now, we've celebrated the 1-year milestone. 🎉 The number of finished projects has grown to 10. We've written new algorithms, built several chatbots and generative AI solutions, and shifted our focus to moving these solutions into production. We've also expanded the team, bringing in smart new talent as we grow to 18 people in 2025. So, here's what's on top of my mind today:
💫 No Baseline, No Progress - AI Needs Strategy
Not a day goes by without me being the spoilsport of baselines, KPIs, and ROI; but I think for good reason. The time for playing around is over. We need to build AI with the highest ROI, grounded in strategy, clear KPIs, and solid risk analysis. Success starts with measuring your baseline. No baseline, no measurable progress.
💫 Hype Won't Build AI That Works
A year ago, it was 'Do you do RAGs?' Now, it's 'Do you do agents?' Next, it'll be something else. The hype cycle spins faster and faster, but our focus stays the same: building AI that adds real value, with strong execution and a clear ROI. Trendy terms don't guarantee impact, but it's important to keep a hype-tech dictionary within reach; it helps with communication.
💫 Productionizing AI Right
Building PoCs is easy, but getting generative AI into production is a whole different challenge. It requires scalability to handle real-world demand, not just demo data. It needs reliability, with proper monitoring, fallback mechanisms, and performance metrics in place. Guardrails, security, and compliance shouldn't be handled as afterthoughts. Production AI is about making it work when it matters most.
💫 Balance for Company Success
Strong processes, standards, and culture are key to continuous growth. While the structures and processes we've built provide stability, adaptability keeps us ahead. It's not just technical or project skills that matter; it's the emotional intelligence, empathy, and perseverance that hold the team together. When the world outside our little company bubble is unpredictable, our trust, shared values, and adaptability keep us moving forward -- together. 🫶
I'm incredibly grateful for the many connections and collaborators, some of which I now call friendships. A special thank you to those who have faced the challenges with us in such a supportive and positive manner, and who've joined us in celebrating the fun along the way. Your dedication and spirit make all the difference. Here's to even more success in the year ahead! 🙌
"Originally published as LinkedIn article/post."