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15 October 2025
A survey conducted by the Chambers of Crafts and the Brandenburg Future Center has produced exciting results regarding digitalization.
The skilled trades sector in Brandenburg is increasingly influenced by technological change . Digitization and initial applications of artificial intelligence (AI) are finding their way into businesses – albeit often hesitantly so far. This is shown by the results of a statewide survey of member companies of the three Brandenburg Chambers of Skilled Crafts, conducted in cooperation with the Brandenburg Future Center.
Many craft businesses are already well-positioned in terms of digitalization : 71 percent of the surveyed companies use software for preparing quotes and invoicing, and 60 percent rely on digital accounting. One in three businesses (32 percent) uses digital tools for time tracking, and 29 percent for scheduling appointments and customer communication. In contrast to digitalization, artificial intelligence has not yet gained widespread acceptance in Brandenburg's craft sector : 70 percent of the craft businesses participating in the survey do not yet use AI. 30 percent of the companies are already working with AI applications such as chatbots for text and speech translation, forecasting tools for sales, or systems for machine maintenance.
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There is still room for improvement in IT security within the skilled trades sector : 13 percent of businesses have no protective measures in place, and 30 percent of companies work with external service providers. The remaining businesses exhibit very different levels of protection – from simply performing regular updates to implementing comprehensive security concepts with encryption and control mechanisms.
Ralph Bührig, Managing Director of the Brandenburg Chamber of Skilled Crafts, emphasizes: " Digitalization in the skilled trades is not an end in itself , but a key prerequisite for competitiveness. However, realistic solutions are needed, especially for small businesses. The use of AI offers great opportunities , but must not be associated with additional bureaucracy. More investment in digital education and stronger integration of the skilled trades into the state's digitalization strategies are necessary." The Chambers of Skilled Crafts and the Brandenburg Future Center support businesses in their digitalization efforts through practical advice, training, and assistance with funding opportunities.
DHB now also available digitally! Simply click here and register for the digital German Crafts Journal (DHB)!
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