Benchmarking digital maturity: How your company really performs in an industry comparison

Digital transformation is no longer a distant future trend, but the reality that will determine the competitiveness of companies in the DACH region and beyond. Advances in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) in particular have dramatically increased the pace. While some pioneers are already realizing massive efficiency gains through AI solutions, many companies - from agile SMEs to established large corporations - are faced with a key question: Where do we really stand?

An honest assessment is the first step towards not only recognizing the full potential of AI, but also using it strategically. But gut feelings are often deceptive. Without a sound, data-supported analysis of their own digital maturity level, many decision-makers are flying blind. In this article, we will show you why systematic benchmarking is essential, which dimensions you should consider and how you can lay the foundations for a successful AI strategy.

Why digital maturity determines your future

In a rapidly changing economy, standing still is tantamount to taking a step backwards. The ability to adapt new technologies such as artificial intelligence determines the efficiency, innovative strength and ultimately the future viability of every company. Our latest study, the Swiss AI Report 2025, in which over 1,300 companies took part, paints a clear picture:

The crucial question is not whether, but how you use AI for yourself. And the starting point for this is always a precise assessment of the current situation.

The challenge of self-assessment: more than just a gut feeling

How do you assess your digital maturity level? The assessment is often based on individual projects or the subjective perception of managers. But that is not enough. To develop a viable AI strategy, you need a holistic and empirical view of your company.

Here come AI maturity models come into play. They provide a structured framework to objectively assess an organization's capabilities in various areas critical to AI adoption. Instead of poking around in the fog, you get a clear map that shows strengths and weaknesses.

Based on our research and practical experience, we at CorpIn have developed the CorpIn Hexagon Model developed. It highlights six key dimensions that are essential for successful AI integration. Let's take a closer look at these based on the cross-industry findings from our study.

The 6 dimensions of AI maturity: a 360-degree view of your company

Successfully implementing artificial intelligence in a company is a marathon, not a sprint. It affects far more than just the IT department. The CorpIn Hexagon framework helps to systematically examine all relevant aspects.

1. data foundation: the gold of the 21st century

Without high-quality and accessible data, any AI application is worthless.

• The reality: Our study shows that 35% of companies struggle with heterogeneous data structures in which systems work in isolation from one another. Such data silos are a massive brake on AI process optimization.
• Ask yourself: How consistent is your data structure? Is your data clean, up-to-date and accessible to the right people? Do you have a clear concept for data governance?

2. strategic objective: AI with a plan instead of chance

AI must not be an isolated IT project, but must be firmly anchored in the corporate strategy.

• The reality: Only 26% of companies state that AI is a central component of their long-term strategy. Even more alarming: over 51% do not use any KPIs to measure the success of AI initiatives.
• Ask yourself: Is there a clear vision of how AI solutions should create value for your company? Are AI projects actively promoted by top management? How do you measure the ROI of your investments?

3. cultural dimension: taking people with you

Even the best technology will fail if employees don't embrace it. Change management is crucial.

• The reality: In 47% of companies, the attitude of the workforce towards AI is mixed. There is often a lack of proactive communication and systematic feedback channels to reduce fears and uncertainties.
• Ask yourself: How do you promote an open and curious culture? Are there targeted initiatives to communicate the benefits of AI (e.g. in the automation of repetitive tasks)? How do you deal with the topic of ChatGPT within the company?

4 Technical requirements: The foundation must be right

Outdated systems and a lack of interfaces can nip promising AI projects in the bud.

• The reality: While core systems such as ERP and CRM are often flexible, many companies struggle to integrate specialized systems, e.g. for AI in production or supply chain management.
• Ask yourself: Is your IT infrastructure scalable and agile enough for future requirements? How well are your systems integrated to ensure a seamless data flow?

5. security & privacy: trust as a currency

When using AI, especially when processing sensitive customer or company data, data protection and security are non-negotiable.

• The reality: only around 20% of the companies surveyed are certified to comprehensive standards such as ISO/IEC 27001. Although many comply with the GDPR/DSG, they do not take any further security measures.
• Ask yourself: Do you have clear guidelines for the ethical and secure handling of data in AI applications? Do you carry out regular security audits?

6. awareness & competence: knowledge as the key to success

Without the necessary know-how, the potential of AI remains untapped. Building up internal expertise is a critical success factor.

• The reality: A shocking 51% of companies do not offer any regular AI training. 39% have neither internal nor external access to AI specialists, which makes the implementation of projects such as predictive maintenance or AI in knowledge management massively more difficult.
• Ask yourself: Do you invest specifically in the further training of your employees? Do you have access to experts who can support you with strategy and implementation?

From knowledge to action: Your path to AI excellence

After this honest stocktaking, you will probably have a clearer picture of where your company stands - and where the biggest areas for action lie. But how do you take the next steps?

Step 1: Create a data-based foundation - with the CorpIn Hexagon

Stop guessing. Use our CorpIn Hexagon platform for a scientifically sound self-assessment. In just a few minutes, you can record your AI maturity level along the six central dimensions. The result:

• A clear assessment of your position: you receive an objective score and can see exactly where your strengths and weaknesses lie.
• Valuable benchmarking: compare yourself anonymously with over 1,300 other Swiss companies of your sector and size.
• Concrete recommendations for action: The system derives initial strategic recommendations directly from your results.

Step 2: Build up targeted skills - with customized AI workshops

Insights are only valuable if they lead to competence. To make your team fit for the future, we offer practical AI workshops for companies for companies. Whether for beginners or advanced users - we impart the necessary knowledge, from the basics of AI to the identification of use cases and the development of an initial strategy.

Step 3: Get a strategic partner on board

Digital transformation is complex. You don't have to go down this path alone. As a young, dynamic AI consultancy we bridge the gap between business understanding and in-depth technology expertise. We support you from analysis and strategy development to the implementation of customized AI solutions.

Conclusion: Act now - the future won't wait

The digital maturity level is the key indicator for your future competitiveness. Systematic benchmarking, as made possible by the CorpIn Hexagon model, is the essential first step. It creates transparency, uncovers blind spots and provides the data basis for an effective AI strategy.

Don't wait for the market to overtake you. Take your future proactively into your own hands. Find out where you really stand and take the right measures.

Your next step towards AI excellence:

Would you like to understand your position in detail and talk to an expert about your individual challenges and opportunities?

➡️ Measure your AI maturity now with the CorpIn Hexagon platform

Or let us talk to you directly. We will be happy to make time for you.

➡️ Book your non-binding introductory meeting here

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