AI-Based Management Approaches for Production Processes: Identifying Requirements for Frameworks and Architectures

Abstract Among the most prevalent challenges for organizations is the artificial intelligence (AI) integration including process transformation and organizational complexity reflecting management obstacles. Processes exist in various formats and formalizations such as textual documentation, graphical instructions, or the like. Here, appropriate combinations of AI can be effective to increase trustworthiness, provide reliable information, and reduce users’ effort. We propose an incremental approach considering early-stage experiments, prototypes, industrial scenario demonstrations, and exploitable results to introduce AI into industry. This is showcased by the European research project FAIRWork that applies hybrid AI-based management approaches to (a) improve information access supporting maintenance and information reliability, (b) validate document compliance, and (c) assist decision-making for worker allocation and production planning. Requirements for AI frameworks and architectures are identified, and the outlook presents a recap on how hybrid AI-based management approaches may entail a wider impact on AI-supported decision-making across domains.