How does AI bring real added value? - Matthias Zwingli from ConnectAI in the podcast
Everyone is talking about artificial intelligence—but many companies are acting based on hype rather than strategy. Matthias Zwingli, CEO of the Zurich-based startup Connect AI, is convinced of this.
"Many people start with a tool before they know what they want to achieve with it," says Matthias Zwingli in the Text Academy's AI podcast with host Christoph Soltmannowski. For him, one thing is certain: AI agents should be treated like digital employees - with clearly defined tasks and measurable benefits. "If the training costs more than the benefits, there is no need for the job - and no need for an AI agent."
Zwingli sees a lot of "FOMO", or fear of missing out, in the current AI euphoria. However, companies first need to understand where AI really creates added value: in repetitive, standardizable processes with a high volume of inquiries - for example in customer support or sales. This is where its use quickly pays off, provided you start small. "The most common mistake is to start too complex. It's better to test, adapt and expand step by step."
For Zwingli, AI is not just a technology issue, but a cultural issue. Skepticism and fear of job loss are normal - until employees feel the effect. "After a few weeks, teams see that AI takes over the volume business and they can concentrate on complex cases." Humans remain central because of empathy and social skills: "AI can imitate emotions, but it has none."
Another success factor is data quality. "AI doesn't learn automatically," emphasizes Zwingli. "It needs well-maintained data and good monitoring." Connectai.ch therefore works with an iterative development process: minimum viable product, test phases, evaluation and ongoing optimization.
Data protection and digital sovereignty also play a central role. ConnectAI hosts its systems entirely in Switzerland for sensitive tasks. "Especially in sensitive industries, it is crucial to retain control over your own data."
His conclusion: AI is worthwhile where companies have many recurring requests and clear goals. Zwingli's recommendation is: assessment - strategy - gradual development. And above all: take employees with you instead of overwhelming them. "AI doesn't replace jobs - it changes them."
The St. Gallen entrepreneur and former Director of Digitalswitzerland founded the start-up in 2024 Connect AIwhich develops specialized AI agents for customer service, sales and events. Connect relies on Swiss hosting, agile development and close collaboration with customers - from strategy to rollout.
The video podcast "AI and Society - Paths into the New World" is produced by the Text Academy Foundation. Two episodes are published monthly, on Spotify, Youtube and other podcast platforms.
