Futurist sounds the alarm: “Germany lacks digital vision and AI”

The reasons for her criticism: Germany is stuck in the here and now and holds on to conservative basic patterns. Although many of the world’s most important companies are based in Europe’s powerhouse, there is a lack of forward thinking. According to Webb, no big steps are needed to open the door to innovation and further development. Rather, she says, it’s a matter of analyzing the economic and strategic needs. Her appeal: “Companies need to proactively dock onto new trends without rushing to jump on the AI hype, implement internal structures and break down silos in order to be able to make a sustainable impact.”

She further said that the European SME sector is struggling with a poor economic outlook. Large companies that were pioneers decades ago are now stuck in conservative patterns and “iterate instead of innovate”. Overall, there is a lack of clear direction and plausible scenarios. “As a result, social structures and the belief in success and resilience are faltering.” At the end of the session, the futurist dispelled a digital myth: “We have all seen reports about AI generating trillions of dollars or destroying countless jobs. That’s nonsense!”, says Webb. Rather, many new business fields and professions will be created by artificial intelligence in the future. Her conclusion: Without common, data-based scenarios, concentration on long-term strategies and a joining of innovative forces, the European economy is in danger of losing out in global comparison.