BMW puts generative AI in the driver’s seat

Turning enterprise data into knowledge entails sharing deep subject matter expertise between many people and sources. This process takes a considerable amount of time—days, weeks or even months.

But thanks to the power of generative AI, companies are now able to shorten that time frame, going from data to knowledge to real-time insights in just minutes.

Together, Accenture and BMW architected a GenAI platform called EKHO (Enterprise Knowledge Harmonizer and Orchestrator) that ingests and analyzes any kind of enterprise-wide data, using large language models to intelligently answer complex questions with precision. The heart of the platform contains multiple AI-enabled applications (called GPT agents) that intelligently choose the correct data source and pull information based on the user’s intent. It also uses enterprise-specific data, which ensures that only the right information is analyzed.

When a user asks a question through the platform’s simple interface, it doesn’t just give a list of possible answers. It selects the right knowledge base and continues to refine answers based on the user’s feedback. EKHO can even solve new issues by learning from and applying past scenarios, pulling any new information added to the knowledge bases, in real time. It’s like having a technical expert and a business leader in your pocket.

EKHO has provided BMW immediate and measurable value. So far, we have implemented the platform across several applications, boosting productivity by as much as 30-40%.

GenAI in action

Thanks to the platform’s flexibility, it can be applied to a vast number of use cases across enterprise functions. Imagine a BMW customer walks into a dealership, ready to buy their dream car. They may have trouble making up their mind when reviewing the myriad features and options. Between the paint, tech, interiors and accessories, there are nearly 10 million possible car configurations. Each variable has its own set of rules, which means some features aren’t compatible.

In the past, a BMW salesperson would have to consult physical manuals—spending hours cross-checking different features and customizations—to get clarity on what’s available. Now, using the EKHO platform, BMW can reduce this time-consuming process to a matter of minutes.

Unlocking value across the enterprise

Thanks to its customizable architecture, EKHO use cases are virtually limitless across any type of organization or business function. For example, for a manufacturing company, it can optimize supply chain processes by answering queries related to inventory and logistics. The EKHO platform can also be integrated with marketing and sales, providing campaign optimization and specific customer insights—all pulled from real-time data.

Regardless of industry or use case complexity, EKHO’s flexible architecture and real-time analysis capabilities have the power to help companies like BMW shift enterprise knowledge management into hyperdrive.