Developing an AI product isn’t just about building something cool—it’s about solving real problems and creating long-term value. As we discussed in the article “AI product innovation trends: Navigating hype vs. reality,” understanding the challenges of AI-washing and focusing on genuine innovation is essential.

At our “AI Innovation for Tech World” panel, experts shared practical advice for startups and established businesses alike on how to move beyond the buzzwords and deliver meaningful results.

Avoid falling into the AI-washing trap

As we outlined before, you should focus on long-term value. Position AI as part of a broader solution, not the solution itself.

• Start with the problem: Use AI only where it solves a meaningful issue.

• Build transparency: Showcase how AI adds value, not just that it exists.

• Iterate with feedback: Validate your approach with real-world use cases.
  
  

“AI should be a part of a broader solution, not the solution itself.”

Getting your AI product right 

When developing an AI product, startups often face the challenge of balancing technical feasibility with market readiness. The panelists outlined a practical approach:

• Validate the market: Build a waitlist or collect user interest to confirm demand.

• Start with a Proof of Concept (PoC): Test technical feasibility and gather initial feedback.

• Develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP): Create a basic version that solves the core problem and test it with real users.

In short, start lean, validate, and iterate to refine your offering. Jan Hauser emphasized that effective product development goes beyond traditional methods. Successful validation involves a comprehensive approach: conducting usability testing, creating targeted surveys, but most crucially, maintaining direct and open communication with customers. The key is to make yourself accessible and keep the feedback loop continuously open.

To accelerate the process of building a PoC or MVP, using a Design Sprint can be highly effective. This structured, time-boxed approach enables teams to prototype and validate ideas quickly, helping startups move efficiently toward investor-ready solutions.

Learn more about this approach in our article: Winning early-stage investors with innovation.

Navigating AI regulation and ethical implementation 

As AI becomes more prevalent, it’s vital to balance innovation with responsible use. Experts at the panel highlighted critical considerations for ethical AI implementation:

• Prioritize data privacy as a fundamental requirement

• Ensure complete auditability of AI processes

• Address potential bias and transparency concerns

• Prepare for potential workforce transformation
  
  

“Prioritize data privacy and ensure complete auditability.”

Workforce development in the AI era 

To stay competitive, you must also invest in AI skill development. Joshua Wöhle, CEO of Mindstone, recommended exploring training materials from platforms like his to help teams understand and effectively leverage AI technologies. The goal is not just to adopt AI, but to build a workforce capable of meaningfully integrating these tools.

By cutting through the hype and focusing on genuine impact, you can harness AI effectively without losing sight of your core mission.