More than two-thirds of PRODOC’s clients are regularly present at this event, offering an ideal platform to nurture existing relationships and explore new business opportunities. This year’s fair reflected a mixed atmosphere: while Wednesday saw a huge turnout, partially vacant halls hinted at some general restraint. For PRODOC, however, the fair was a fresh opportunity – driven by a new strategy and AI-powered tools to enhance our market positioning.
Current Trends and Developments at SPS 2024
The SPS – previously known as SPS, IPC, Drives – has evolved into a platform for “Smart Production Solutions,” highlighting the industry’s shift towards digitalized and connected systems. While earlier editions boasted maximum exhibitor participation, this year featured a reduced presence. Nevertheless, the fair’s overall sentiment remained optimistic, especially regarding the increasing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in automation. PRODOC seized this dynamic opportunity to captivate clients with an innovative approach.
Preparation and Strategic Development
PRODOC adopted a targeted strategy to prepare for the fair. Leveraging the AI Consultant training and tools from the AI Playbook, we developed a detailed marketing persona for our target audience. This persona enabled us to better understand the specific needs of our clients’ marketing departments and provide tailored solutions. A particular focus on AI-powered content – generated directly in the target language rather than translated – showcased PRODOC’s innovative edge.
Presenting the Marketing Master Prompt
The centerpiece of our trade fair presence was the Marketing Master Prompt. This tool provides companies with a way to quickly and efficiently create marketing messages tailored to the desired language and tone. Our live demonstrations at the fair attracted significant interest. Using a simple prompt, we generated audience-specific content within seconds, clearly showcasing the tool’s capabilities. This was supported by a well-structured flyer and presentations explaining the potential of the Master Prompt.
Observations on AI Adoption in the Industry
One fascinating aspect of the fair was the varying levels of AI adoption among companies. While some businesses have only experimented with tools like ChatGPT, others have already implemented comprehensive AI strategies. However, it became evident that awareness of the EU AI Act – mandating training for employees involved in high-risk applications starting February 2025 – is still limited. PRODOC is well-prepared in this area, offering us another distinctive advantage.
Reflection and Gratitude
The success at SPS would not have been possible without the support of the AI Training Institute and the invaluable guidance of Torsten Körting. A special thanks also goes to the other participants of the AI Consultant program. Through mutual support and the creation of a strong network, we learned from one another and gained valuable insights, which significantly contributed to the success of our trade fair presence.
Conclusion
SPS 2024 once again demonstrated the importance of recognizing and responding to trends early. For PRODOC, the trade fair was not only an opportunity to deepen existing client relationships but also to open new doors with innovative approaches. We look to the future with optimism and are excited about the next steps in developing AI-powered solutions for our clients.
The SPS fair is one of the leading trade events for the automation industry. It provides a platform for companies to showcase their latest innovations and technologies to an international audience. Simultaneously, it allows professionals to explore trends such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and connected production. As a meeting point for experts, suppliers, and customers, the SPS plays a key role in driving technological advancements and fostering collaborations.
The EU AI Act establishes strict guidelines for using AI systems, especially for high-risk applications. Companies must first categorize and assess their AI applications to determine if they fall under high-risk. Subsequently, internal control mechanisms, including documentation and regular audits, need to be established. Moreover, all employees working with high-risk applications must undergo specific training to understand the requirements and potential risks. Early planning and collaboration with experts are crucial for timely compliance.
Efficient AI integration begins with clear goal setting: companies need to define which processes they want to optimize with AI. Evaluating the existing data landscape is equally important, as AI systems rely on high-quality data. Implementation should start with pilot projects, accompanied by employee training to ensure a smooth transition. Using AI-powered tools like the Marketing Master Prompt can significantly enhance efficiency in areas such as content creation, translation, and customer communication.