A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

A

Agile

Agile is a term that originally comes from software development but is now widely used in various fields, including project management and organizational development. Agility refers to the ability of an organization or a team to be flexible, adaptable, and responsive to changing requirements, challenges and customer needs.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The term Artificial Intelligence encompasses software that emulates human intelligence through the utilization of cognitive technologies, such as speech control or machine learning. AI programs operate autonomously and rely on pattern recognition, which, through the analysis of behavior and habits, enables them to adapt to individual users. Artificial Intelligence, often referred to as 'virtual agents,' finds applications in everyday objects, such as security features in cars to prevent microsleep incidents. Moreover, AI is also employed in various industrial settings, such as robots utilized for process management and manufacturing.

Augmented Reality (AR)

The concept pertains to expanding human perception through computer-based means. It enhances real-life experiences by incorporating virtual information or facilitating interaction. Cameras play a vital role in augmented reality, as they can now be seamlessly integrated into a variety of mobile devices, providing users with a simultaneous view of both the real world and multimedia content. Users can experience augmented reality through optical head-mounted displays, smartphone screens or even specialized data gloves.

Automation

Automation in the field of digitization refers to the use of digital technologies and software to control, monitor and execute tasks, processes and workflows largely without human intervention. The goal of automation is to increase efficiency, accuracy and speed in various aspects of digital operations.

B

Big Data

As technology advances, an increasing number of devices are becoming interconnected with the Internet. This leads to a substantial influx of unstructured data, which is then examined and evaluated through data management platforms. Conventional data processing software is unable to handle the vast amounts of data generated. Utilizing the right analytical tools, big data can assist companies in streamlining their operations, identifying trends and engaging with customers in a precise manner.

Blockchain

The concept of blockchain aligns with the rising trend towards decentralized data management and processing. Much like how solar panels on rooftops offer centralized power generation, blockchain employs a central administrative unit. In essence, it consists of a linked chain of data blocks, within which transactions are recorded and scrutinized. Through the use of smart contracts, the blockchain can also accommodate more intricate transactions. For instance, smart contracts can streamline loan agreements, eliminating the need for previous administrative procedures.

Business Analyst

An external business analyst is a professional who is not a permanent employee of an organization but is hired as a third-party consultant or contractor to provide analysis, insights, and recommendations related to business processes, challenges or specific projects. These individuals are typically experts in business analysis and are engaged by organizations on a temporary or project basis to leverage their specialized skills and expertise.

Business Intelligence (BI)

The term refers to IT-based approaches and procedures used for the systematic analysis of digital information, with the aim of gaining comprehensive insights to support corporate decision-making. To achieve this, data is first gathered in a data warehouse, which serves as a data storage system for consolidating specific data. Typically, the required data originates from an ERP system. In a subsequent step, these data are interconnected. Business intelligence (BI) offers the potential to provide insights into areas such as market trends, the development of individual business elements, as well as identifying potential risks and strategies for risk mitigation.

C

Certificates

In digitization, certificates are often used to verify and ensure the authenticity of digital information, websites, users and more. These certificates play an important role in digital security and encryption.

Change Management

Change Management is an organizational approach or method that aims to effectively plan, implement and control changes within an organization. The primary goal of Change Management is to ensure that changes are introduced smoothly and successfully, without having negative impacts on the organization and its employees. It involves the development of strategies, processes and tools to manage the transition and ensure that the objectives of the change are achieved.

Clean Code

Clean code is a programming practice that prioritizes code readability, simplicity, and maintainability. It involves using clear and consistent naming, avoiding unnecessary complexity, and creating modular, testable, and well-abstracted code. Clean code is written with the goal of making it easily understandable by other developers and is often accompanied by regular refactoring to maintain code quality.

Continuous Improvement

Continuous improvement in the field of digitalization refers to the ongoing process of identifying, implementing and monitoring changes to continuously optimize and enhance digital systems, processes and technologies. This approach aims to continuously improve the efficiency, quality and performance of digital solutions to adapt to the rapidly changing requirements and opportunities in the digital world.

Customer Journey Map

The Customer Journey Map is a representation of the entire process that a customer goes through when interacting with a company, product or service. It serves to visualize and analyze a customer's experiences and interactions throughout their entire journey, from the initial contact with the company to the purchase decision and beyond. The Customer Journey Map allows companies to better understand the needs, desires and pain points of their customers and to take appropriate actions to enhance the customer experience.

D

Data Protection

Data protection refers to the practices, measures and laws aimed at safeguarding personal information and data from unauthorized access, misuse, loss or disclosure. Data protection is a fundamental concept designed to ensure the privacy and rights of individuals regarding their personal information are preserved.

Databases

Databases are structured collections of information or data that can be stored, managed and retrieved in an organized manner. They can be categorized into two main types: structured databases, which organize data in tabular form with predefined schemas, and unstructured databases, which use flexible or non-tabular formats for storing information.

Digital Strategy

A digital strategy is a strategic plan or roadmap developed by companies organizations or institutions to control and optimize their digital presence and activities. It involves a systematic approach to leveraging digital technologies, platforms and resources to achieve business objectives and gain competitive advantages.

Digitalization

Digitalization is the process of converting analog information, data and processes into digital formats and structures. This involves the use of digital technologies and tools to capture, store, process, transmit and access information. Digitalization enables the efficient processing and utilization of data, as well as the automation of tasks and processes. It has far-reaching implications for various areas, including the economy, healthcare, education and society, driving innovation and progress.

E

Empowerment

In the context of digitalization, empowerment focuses on enabling individuals, employees and organizations to harness the potential of digitalization to expand their skills, resources and sphere of influence. This allows them to actively participate in shaping and utilizing digital technologies and fully realizing the benefits of this advancement.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

Is defined as a system that automates and manages business processes in areas such as finance, manufacturing, sales, supply chain, human resources and operations. ERP systems assist executives in gaining insights, streamlining operations and enhancing decision-making by breaking down data silos and integrating information across various departments.

I

Industry 4.0

Is a term that describes the fourth industrial revolution and represents a technological development in the field of industrial production and manufacturing. This revolution is characterized by the integration of digital technologies, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), data analysis and automation into the traditional manufacturing industry.

Interfaces

Interfaces are like bridges that allow different systems or programs to communicate with each other and exchange information. Whether these systems speak different technologies or languages, interfaces help them communicate.

L

Low-code development

Low-code development is an approach to software development that simplifies and accelerates the application creation process by reducing the amount of manual coding required. It typically involves visual development tools and pre-built components, allowing developers to design, build, and deploy applications more quickly by combining visual design with custom code when necessary.

M

Manufacturing Execution System (MES)

Are real-time production management systems. They capture and integrate operational, machinery and workforce deployment data, typically interfacing with all other process automation systems in a company. MES functions as a management system at the operational level, bridging the gap between corporate management and day-to-day operations.

N

No-code development

No-code development is a method of building software applications that does not require traditional coding skills. Instead, it relies on visual interfaces, templates, and pre-configured components to enable individuals with little to no coding experience to create functional applications. Users can often create applications by dragging and dropping elements without writing code.

P

Potential Analysis

Potential analysis is a process in which companies or organizations assess their existing resources, technologies and processes to identify opportunities for the implementation of digital solutions. This analysis enables the full realization of the potentials and opportunities presented by digitalization.

Process Optimization

Process optimization refers to the systematic approach in which organizations or businesses analyze their existing workflows, processes and procedures to make them more efficient, cost-effective and productive. The main goal of process optimization is to reduce waste, utilize resources more efficiently and enhance the quality of products or services. This is often achieved by identifying bottlenecks, inefficient steps or unnecessary activities within a process and implementing measures for optimization and improvement.

R

Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is a technology that uses software robots or 'bots' to automate repetitive and rule-based tasks in business processes. These bots are designed to interact with digital systems and applications in the same way that a human would, by mimicking mouse clicks, keystrokes, and data entry. RPA is typically used to streamline and optimize workflows, reduce human error, enhance efficiency and free up human workers from routine, time-consuming tasks so they can focus on more value-added activities.

S

Smart Factory

Is a manufacturing facility where production processes are automatically optimized and controlled through interconnected machines. Individual tools are equipped with information, often through technologies like RFID chips, that can be shared and accessed by other machines. Smart Factories offer the advantage of efficiently producing small batch sizes or even customized products.

Software

Software is a term in information technology that refers to programs, applications and data executed on a computer or another digital device to perform specific tasks or functions. Software consists of a series of instructions or commands that can be understood and processed by a computer.

SWOT-Analysis

A SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool used by individuals, businesses and organizations to assess their current situation and make informed decisions about future strategies. SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats.

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W

Workflow optimization

Refers to the process of enhancing and streamlining the sequence of tasks, activities and processes within an organization to achieve greater efficiency, productivity and effectiveness. It involves the systematic analysis, redesign and improvement of workflows to eliminate bottlenecks, reduce redundant steps, minimize delays and enhance the overall flow of work from start to finish.