In 2025, the economy is at a decisive turning point. Economic pressure, political uncertainties, increasing regulatory requirements and rapid technological advances demand new approaches. Creativity and innovation alone are no longer enough – it is about supporting companies through real transformation and making them fit for the future.
Inflation and recession are putting budgets under massive pressure, while regulatory requirements are increasing. At the same time, technological developments such as artificial intelligence (AI) are changing the rules of the game in almost all industries. However, many companies get stuck in the experimental phase instead of developing sustainable solutions that create long-term added value.
Sustainability is much more than just reducing CO₂. It is about using resources such as time, money, energy and production facilities efficiently and responsibly. Companies that align their strategies with these principles create not only ecological, but also economic and social value. Sustainability should therefore be a central element in every transformation process.
Technology offers enormous potential for rethinking business models, customer experiences and ways of working. In particular, AI enables personalization and efficiency gains that were unthinkable just a few years ago. However, these opportunities often remain untapped if companies do not have the courage to move beyond pilot projects and dare to implement them sustainably.
True transformation means connecting technology, organization and culture. It is not enough to simply introduce new systems or optimize existing processes. Rather, it requires an integrative approach that combines technological innovation with organizational change and a clear vision. This includes not only the introduction of new technologies, but also the creation of structures that successfully anchor them.
In the context of these challenges, the creation of clear standards plays a central role. As other experts in a recent HORIZONT article point out, it is important not to consider technological innovations in isolation, but to place them in a framework that combines ethics, sustainability and economic viability. This requires an open dialog and collaboration within and between industries.
Companies that are willing to lead the way and actively shape change will emerge from this phase stronger than before. It is not just about reacting to change, but consciously shaping it.
Transformation is not a one-time task, but an ongoing process. Companies that approach this process with a clear strategy, courageous decisions and an integrative approach will not only survive, but actively shape the future.
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