About this project
This spring, our P2P project has focused on developing an AI-based tool that helps Finnish export companies better understand and anticipate future market developments over a 3–5-year horizon. The idea is to give companies a smarter way to deal with uncertainty and complexity by providing data-driven insights and forecasts they can rely on when making strategic decisions.
Our team consists of students from various backgrounds, and we’ve combined knowledge from service design, business analysis, and technology. The project is based on real-world needs from our project partner, and we’ve worked closely with them throughout the process. We’ve used service design methods to explore user needs and started building a concept that could eventually evolve into a functional AI tool.
Why is AI such a valuable asset in business decision-making?
Throughout the project, we’ve discussed and explored the growing role of artificial intelligence in modern work environments. AI isn’t just a trend – it’s a transformative tool that changes how we process information, make decisions, and plan for the future.
One of the most important reasons why AI is so powerful lies in its ability to process huge amounts of data. Companies today are overwhelmed with information coming from multiple sources: economic indicators, global trends, customer behavior, supply chain dynamics, and much more. No human team can effectively analyze and interpret all this data on their own. AI can do this in seconds, identifying patterns and anomalies that might otherwise go unnoticed.
AI also supports better decision-making by generating simulations and forecasts. Instead of reacting to changes after they happen, businesses can explore different scenarios in advance. For example, what happens if raw material prices spike or a key competitor exits the market? AI can provide realistic predictions based on current data, allowing leaders to make more informed and proactive choices.
Another key benefit is the time it saves. By automating data analysis, reporting, and routine forecasting tasks, AI frees up professionals to focus on creative thinking and strategy. This shift not only improves efficiency but also reduces the risk of human error in fast-moving environments.
For Finnish export companies operating in a global and competitive landscape, being able to see even slightly further into the future can be a major advantage. With AI, companies can spot emerging opportunities or threats earlier than their competitors and adjust their strategies accordingly. In this sense, AI isn’t just a supporting tool, it can become a core part of a company’s competitive edge.
Where we are now
At this stage of the project, we’ve mapped out the user needs, benchmarked existing solutions, and started shaping the logic behind our AI concept. We’ve also collected feedback on early versions and used it to refine our direction. Next, we’ll focus on designing a visual prototype of the user interface and preparing for future testing.
This project has been both challenging and exciting. It has offered us a chance to work on something truly relevant and forward-looking. We’ve learned not only about AI, but also about teamwork, problem-solving. We learn that technology can serve real business needs in practical ways.
Written by: Peter Jormanainen
Image: Pixaby
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