Under the inspiring motto “Change the World through Code, not Words,” Data Migration International Group (DMI) hosted its inaugural JiVS Hackathon during the World Economic Forum (WEF) from January 21-23, 2025. The event brought together around 40 developers from diverse countries, including Algeria, Dubai, Germany, Canada, Austria, Switzerland, and the USA, to compete for a prize pool of 5,000 Swiss francs.
The hackathon showcased groundbreaking AI solutions designed to address real-world challenges, emphasizing the transformative power of technology in serving people and businesses.
Addressing Data Migration Issues with AI
The winning team, “Inspect,” developed an AI-powered image recognition and analysis system to identify and assess avalanche risks. Their solution, created in 36 hours, leverages existing AI models and algorithms to automate the traditionally paper-based avalanche assessment process used by the Swiss Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research (SLF). By enabling mountain guides to upload smartphone photos for instant analysis, the system significantly reduces response times, potentially saving lives in dangerous avalanche conditions.
Second place went to “Strike,” which tackled a challenge posed by DMI itself. The team developed an AI-powered tool to streamline data migration for companies transitioning to new software systems like SAP S/4HANA. By addressing the issue at the application level rather than the data level, their solution minimizes errors and reduces the time and expertise required to create predefined business objects.
Team “Sigma” secured third place with their AI chatbot designed to control humanoid robots through natural language input. The team demonstrated their innovation in real-life conditions by taking a robot for a walk along Davos’ promenade and assigning it various tasks. Thomas Failer, Group CEO of Data Migration International, highlighted the potential of such robots in the service industry, particularly in hospitals and care facilities.
Exploring the Future of AI
The hackathon culminated in the Digital Lounge @WEF2025, an evening event at the Guggerbach Center in Davos. Here, participants networked with over 100 executives and leading AI experts, exploring the future of AI and its practical applications.
During this event, Failer emphasized the importance of AI-driven automation for mature economies like Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. He stated that it offers a “fantastic opportunity” to boost productivity and attract young talent.
Due to the event’s success, Failer announced plans for a repeat next year, with the next conference and hackathon scheduled for August 8, 2025, at Schloss Seeburg in Kreuzlingen. The JiVS Hackathon @WEF2025 not only highlighted the potential of AI to solve pressing global challenges but also reinforced the importance of collaboration and innovation in shaping a better future.
What This Means for ERP Insiders
AI-powered data migration can streamline ERP transition. The second-place team, “Strike,” demonstrated how AI can simplify the complex process of migrating to next-generation ERP systems like SAP S/4HANA. By addressing challenges at the application level rather than the data level, AI solutions reduce errors, save time, and minimize the need for extensive expert knowledge. ERP users can leverage similar AI tools to ensure smoother, more efficient transitions during system upgrades.
Automation enhances productivity and competitiveness. As Failer noted, the potential of AI-driven automation significantly increases productivity, particularly for mature economies. For ERP users, integrating AI tools to automate repetitive tasks optimizes workflows and improves decision-making. By adopting such technologies, businesses can stay competitive and attract top talent in an increasingly digital world.
AI solutions can address real-world business challenges. The hackathon showcased how AI can solve practical problems, from avalanche risk assessment to humanoid robot control. This underscores the importance of exploring AI applications tailored to their specific needs. Whether it’s improving data accuracy, enhancing customer service, or optimizing supply chain management, AI offers innovative solutions to drive business growth and efficiency.
