“Made in Germany” is an internationally recognized seal of quality. The achievements of German small to medium-sized companies are appreciated worldwide. DMB sat down with influential entrepreneurs to learn about what drives them and how to continue to be successful. birkle IT CEO, Jörn Halbauer shared his thoughts about his motivators for further growth. He talked about entrepreneurship and the value and social importance of medium-sized companies.
“Deliberate action, careful consideration of opportunities and risks and always having time for your employees are essential to master the challenges.” Jörn Halbauer
Entrepreneurs have a decisive influence on German medium-sized companies. What is your business area? Please describe birkle IT with three sentences.
We are a fast-growing software company in the heart of Munich and have specialized in the digitalization of companies. We help our clients to successfully shape digital change. Our focus is on three main pillars – the modernization of software systems, projects in the field of artificial intelligence and on-site IT consulting. With our passion for software development and the constant use of intelligent technologies, we guarantee a high level of service to our customers and partners.
German medium-sized companies are known worldwide for their economic and social importance. Why is the German SME sector so important for Germany?
The medium-sized companies employ over 30 million people and are therefore the engine of the German economy. For me, the greatest strengths of medium-sized companies are adaptability and flexibility. As a dynamic and fast-growing IT company, we implement these strengths daily in both the project business and the consulting area. This helps us to achieve and guarantee the best possible outcome for our customers.
Quality, creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial responsibility characterize medium-sized companies. What motivates you? What drives you to live up to your entrepreneurial responsibility every day?
We want to ensure our customers recognize the potential of digitalization so that they can benefit from it. I am particularly interested in helping to shape the future of many companies. Being a part of various success stories and increasing the competitiveness of companies is something to work for. It’s great to see our customers increased revenues through digital product enhancements, IT solutions using artificial intelligence or data warehouse implementations.
Crises and challenges are also part of entrepreneurship. Which experiences and skills are particularly important to survive in turbulent times?
The shortage of skilled workers is currently a major challenge. As an entrepreneur, it is important to inspire young people to take an interest in technology and to take time for their further education. That is why we have founded the birkle Academy, to stay up to date and to discuss the latest software topics. Our customers benefit from the fact that we always develop state-of-the-art products. It is important to know that fundamental innovations – especially in the field of AI – are now introduced approximately every two years. Deliberate action, careful consideration of opportunities and risks and always having time for your employees are essential to master the challenges.
Bureaucratic obstacles, tax burdens, or financial pitfalls make business operations more difficult. Which problems and entrepreneurial difficulties must politicians most urgently address so that SMEs can continue to be successful in the future?
In a time of globalization, the economy is becoming ever faster and more complex. I see an urgent need for modern, digital processes and solutions in public administration. Estonia, where we also have an office, already has a major approach. Politicians have recognized the problems, now it’s time to implement them. birkle IT already supports public administration with tailor-made software solutions. Competitive framework conditions are crucial for the economy and medium-sized businesses. Read the full DMS interview in German here.
