Success factors for the implementation of artificial intelligence in the cement industry: Mannersdorf plant case study

Abstract

The main objective of this master thesis is to define critical success factors in the implementation of Artificial Intelligence in the cement industry. First, the author decided to examine the literature, search for developed theoretical frameworks, and use these to evaluate and examine what the specific success factors of the Artificial Intelligence Expert System implemented in the Mannersdorf cement plant are. Research was done by examining two specific cases, which were evaluated using theoretical frameworks and a developed questionnaire. Due to the nature of business operations in the Mannersdorf plant, the questionnaire sample was not large enough to provide reliable statistical data. Therefore, this research is exploratory in nature and the conclusions derived describe the personal view of the author of this thesis. In the case of the Mannersdorf plant, the author defines five critical factors, these being Problem Importance, Developers skill, Shell Characteristics, Expert Characteristic and User Involvement. Further, the author takes a critical look at these factors, concluding that this success is not part of some structural process; rather it is the result of the personal motivation of the local users and other circumstances, for example ease of use of the software. Finally, the author reflects on the two specific cases and gives his personal recommendations for the better adoption of Artificial Intelligence in the cement industry. These are: a clear AI strategy, investment in talents and skills and openness to new business models.