FC Schalke 04 has announced the implementation of a comprehensive artificial intelligence platform designed to streamline internal operations. Rather than focusing on a single high-profile project, the club is integrating AI as a functional tool across its entire organizational structure, including communications, sales, HR, and sporting operations.
A Chat-Based Assistant for Daily Operations
The platform, developed in collaboration with Transform Sports, features a chat-based AI assistant. This tool is specifically designed to assist staff with text generation, data comparisons, structured summaries, and decision-making preparation.
According to CEO Matthias Tillmann, the goal is clear: “Artificial intelligence is a digital working tool for Schalke. It helps us increase speed and quality… while the final decision remains with people.”
Efficiency Over Automation
Schalke’s strategy emphasizes productivity and speed without replacing human roles. Key focus areas include:
- Accelerated Content Production: Reducing time spent on drafting and editing.
- Data-Driven Support: Helping departments analyze information faster for better decision support.
- Governance and Safety: The club has established strict guidelines to ensure no sensitive data is processed and that all AI-generated outputs are validated by human staff.
Practical Implementation
To ensure the technology provides real value, the rollout includes internal workshops. This phased approach allows employees to apply AI to real-world scenarios immediately, with IT & Digital Head Nikolas Gross emphasizing a feedback-driven development process to refine the system’s daily utility.