In April 2026, Patrick Rupprecht and Isabel Rodenas from the Institute for Digital Transformation and Strategy (IDS) presented a paper at the 16th IHIET-AI Conference on Future Applications of Human Interaction and Emerging Technologies in Valencia.
In their latest paper, produced as part of the “HybrAId” project funded by the City of Vienna (MA 23), they explore how SMEs can select suitable generative AI models for the design thinking process.
Challenges and selection criteria
This paper addresses a topic that is currently gaining importance for many companies. Which AI models are suitable for which tasks, and what should be considered when making a selection? The focus was on aspects such as data protection, EU compliance, costs, speed, and reliability. The results show that there are no simple, one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead of selecting a single model, it may make more sense to deploy different systems in a targeted manner depending on the task.
New perspectives from international research
The conference also provided an opportunity to discuss current developments in the field of “Hybrid Intelligence” and innovation with an international audience of experts and researchers, and to gain new perspectives from international research. The discussions with colleagues from different disciplines were particularly enriching. They reaffirmed just how diverse and dynamic the field of generative AI is currently evolving.
Further information on “Hybrid Intelligence in SMEs” can be found on the “HybrAId” project page.