More and more startups are developing products based on generative AI and large language models (LLMs), the technology behind applications such as ChatGPT. A first version is often built quickly, but an AI product that continues to function reliably on a larger scale requires more.Judith van Stegeren of Nijmegen-based Datakami walked the attendees through this challenge. Datakami helps AI startups develop reliable and scalable products. To support entrepreneurs in this process, the company developed the AI Readiness Score. With this free self-assessment, companies can evaluate how future-proof their AI product is and identify areas for improvement.<img src="https://cms.aihub-oost.nl/uploads/AI_Connect_Datakami_1308188b4b.png" alt="AI-Connect _Datakami.png" srcset="https://cms.aihub-oost.nl/uploads/thumbnail_AI_Connect_Datakami_1308188b4b.png 235w,https://cms.aihub-oost.nl/uploads/small_AI_Connect_Datakami_1308188b4b.png 500w,https://cms.aihub-oost.nl/uploads/medium_AI_Connect_Datakami_1308188b4b.png 750w,https://cms.aihub-oost.nl/uploads/large_AI_Connect_Datakami_1308188b4b.png 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1528" height="1013">Judith van Stegeren, Datakami<h2>How well is your AI product prepared for growth?</h2>Many participants had already completed the AI Readiness Score prior to the meeting. As a result, they had a clear picture of the areas requiring attention within their own organizations. This led to plenty of questions and discussion during Judith’s interactive presentation.It turned out that a number of entrepreneurs were already actively engaged in systematically testing and validating AI models and collecting user feedback. They shared their experiences and explained the benefits of this approach.For many other attendees, this was not yet a standard part of the development process. The emphasis is often on creating a working solution, while testing reliability and collecting user feedback receive less attention. The meeting made it clear why it’s important to consider these aspects from the very beginning.<h2>Learning from Other AI Leaders</h2>In addition to in-depth content, networking was central to the event. The gathering began with an informal reception, where entrepreneurs got to know one another and caught up over drinks. Since this was already the third edition of AI-Connect, there were also familiar faces from previous gatherings. After the presentation, conversations continued during the buffet as participants shared experiences and insights with one another.Several entrepreneurs noted that the event had made them more aware of the importance of validation and user feedback. They went home with concrete ideas for implementing these within their own organizations.AI-Connect demonstrates just how valuable it is to share knowledge and experiences. By learning from one another, entrepreneurs in the eastern Netherlands are collaborating on AI solutions that are not only smart but also reliable and future-proof. The next edition of AI-Connect is scheduled for Wednesday evening, March 31, at the Makersfabriek.Curious about how future-proof your AI product is? Learn more about <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.aihub-oost.nl/projects/datakami-helpt-ai-startups-bouwen-aan-een-toekomstbestendig-ai-product">Datakami’s AI Readiness Score.&nbsp;</a>The event was organized by AI-hub Oost-Nederland, ZWINC, and Digital District Zwolle, and made possible in part by Digital Holland.

AI-Connect: From a Working AI Prototype to a Reliable Product