The author, computer scientist and strategy consultant, draws up a clear, technology-supported picture of the future for organisations in 2035 - and shows how they can radically reposition themselves through the intelligent use of software and artificial intelligence.
Autonomous, sustainable, resilient - the company as a learning system
At the centre of the model is the idea of a highly networked, autonomous company that fully automates routine tasks and makes decisions based on huge amounts of data. The roles of employees shift significantly as a result: away from performing repetitive tasks towards creative, strategic and empathetic work. Schnitzhofer does not describe this development as a vision of the future, but as a logical consequence of technical and social trends that are already noticeable today.
His focus on four central values is particularly exciting: autonomy, sustainability, humanity and resilience. In this way, he ensures that technology is not used for its own sake, but contributes to the improvement of companies and society. In this way, AI not only makes more precise decisions, but also more long-term ones - free from human errors of reasoning or short-term profit goals. At the same time, transparency and networking ensure minimum ethical standards and fair working conditions.
New working models and a radical change in corporate culture
Schnitzhofer impressively describes how traditional corporate structures are dissolving: Hierarchies are disappearing, departments are being replaced by interdisciplinary teams, leadership is becoming inspirational communication instead of control. Algorithms take over operational decisions, while people think about purpose, direction and vision. In future, employees will even be able to choose between more salary or more free time - made possible by the enormous increase in productivity of automated systems.
The path to this is an evolutionary one - from the analogue company to digitalised and semi-automated stages through to complete self-management. Schnitzhofer explains this transformation in an understandable way, without being enamoured of technology. Instead, he provides a realistic guide for anyone who wants to make companies fit for the future.
"The Self-Driving Company" is an intelligent, inspiring and challenging book. It does not provide simple instructions, but a framework for all those who want to rethink business - data-based, networked, but always with people at the centre. A must-read for those shaping the future who are ready to go beyond digitalisation.
