Celonis is driving a new wave of business process optimization through its innovative use of process mining and intelligence. By leveraging advanced data analytics, this company is not just transforming individual processes but changing the entire landscape of operational efficiency across various industries.

Dr. Lars Reinkemeyer, the Chief Evangelist at Celonis, recently shared insights on the critical role of data in enhancing business processes. “Right now, it’s a step-by-step approach,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of building a solid data foundation for artificial intelligence (AI) to thrive. This sentiment aligns closely with the gradual advancements we see in AI applications across sectors.

At the heart of Celonis’s strategy is the Process Intelligence Graph, also known as the “pig.” This data backbone integrates process data, event logs, and various process nuances, ensuring companies have a comprehensive view of their operations. Dr. Reinkemeyer describes this integration as crucial for gaining end-to-end transparency, which is particularly beneficial for companies like Pfizer and BMW. These firms have experienced significant financial improvements through Celonis’s technology, with some reaping triple-digit millions in value.

However, the journey doesn’t come without its challenges. Dr. Reinkemeyer pointed out that while AI excels in prepared processes, true progress will occur when it can predict and autonomously act on complex scenarios. “AI can only be as intelligent as the data available,” he stated, highlighting the necessity for robust data integrity.

The transition from identifying inefficiencies to taking action is fundamental to Celonis’s mission. Dr. Reinkemeyer likened this process to an X-ray: first recognizing the problems and then implementing solutions. A practical example of this principle is seen in Celonis’s collaboration with Siemens. Over the years, Siemens has successfully mapped its logistics from initial shipment steps to complex global supply chains. By 2018, they had achieved transparency for approximately 30 million items shipped annually.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has further underscored the necessity for resilient supply chain solutions. Dr. Reinkemeyer observed that inefficiencies and manual rework not only affect customer satisfaction but also strain working capital. By identifying delays and inefficiencies, Celonis enables companies to adopt a proactive stance in their operations.

Insights derived from Celonis’s tools often elicit an astounded response from clients. “The first reaction is always, ‘Wow, I wasn’t aware that my process had so many variants and inefficiencies,'” Dr. Reinkemeyer remarked. But he emphasizes that insights must be actionable: “Value is the name of the game. Insight must lead to action to deliver results.”

Celonis’s commitment to reliable AI is evident in its focus on realistic expectations. Dr. Reinkemeyer committed to not overhyping the technology but instead focusing on its abilities within defined scopes. The open ecosystem model allows corporations like Pfizer and BMW to tailor AI functionalities to their specific needs, encouraging continuous innovation.

A striking example of AI applications in workflow management is seen in Deutsche Telekom, which has achieved a remarkable 95% automation in standard purchase orders through Celonis’s technology. Dr. Reinkemeyer asserts that this shift leads to a more meaningful work experience for employees, enabling them to focus on higher-value tasks rather than manual order processing.

This transition toward automation is particularly beneficial in regions with demographic challenges, such as Japan. With an aging population, productivity gains are imperative. Automating 95% of the purchase orders in such contexts is more than a technological advancement—it’s a necessity for sustaining economic viability.

Real-world applications of Celonis’s AI-driven management showcase immediate benefits. Dr. Reinkemeyer highlighted Smurfit Kappa’s use of Celonis to streamline inventory management. Their system was intelligent enough to flag material availability across different plants, facilitating timely shipping and manufacturing.

Looking forward, Dr. Reinkemeyer envisions a future where AI acts as an indispensable partner in business operations. “The ultimate goal is to make support processes highly efficient—95 to 98% automated—so companies can focus on their core business,” he stated. Ultimately, Celonis’s mission is anchored in realizing value for businesses, ensuring they no longer just survive but thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.

With significant advancements in data integration and automation, Celonis is not just transforming processes but redefining success metrics in business efficiency. Companies leveraging these insights are well-positioned to maintain their competitive edge and achieve sustainable growth.