Technauts: Innovation in practice

Hosted by Inwedo

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Apr 2026

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A podcast for innovation leaders who implement technology solutions under real-world pressure — with limited time, resources, and a clear business goal. Each episode explores how companies streamline processes, run AI pilots, and make better use of data — based on actual projects, not theory. If you're leading R&D, operations, or digital transformation and prefer practical insights over hype — tune in to Technauts.

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20 recent

April 22, 202613 min

Why Excel is the most expensive system in your organization

TransAlta lost $24 million from a single copy-paste error in a spreadsheet. More than 20 years of research shows that 88–94% of operational spreadsheets contain similar errors — baked into the structure and invisible to the people who built them.Excel is usually the first tool you reach for when you need to calculate, compare, or track something. The problem starts when it becomes your company's operating system: processes that were meant to live in a spreadsheet temporarily end up staying for years, and the whole thing depends on one person who knows it inside out.This episode looks at what really goes into the cost of running on Excel, what risks it creates, why companies wait so long to change, and how to figure out which processes to move first.Get the free AI assistant for process inventory.If you want to go deeper into a specific process, reach out. A 30-minute conversation is where we start — enough to understand your situation and figure out the next steps.

February 18, 202613 min

Polaris: A quality framework that keeps IT delivery predictable

Most IT teams have good practices. The problem is they stick to them when there's time — and deadline pressure does the rest.In this episode, we talk about how we built Polaris at Inwedo — an internal quality standard for software delivery.Polaris came out of an uncomfortable finding during our ISO certification audit: our results depended more on who was on the project than on how we worked as a company. So we built a framework that doesn't impose a process — it gives teams a way to assess where they actually stand and decide what to change.If you manage IT projects or build technical teams, you'll find a concrete starting point here — not another theory about quality culture.📥 Free ebook with the full framework, audit guide, and real project examples 👉 https://inwedo.com/ebook-polaris-it-quality-standard/

November 27, 202533 min

How to connect AI with your business systems? A business guide to Model Context Protocol

How do you connect AI to the business systems already running in your organization — in a way that's stable, scalable and independent of which model you choose? So that each new AI initiative can launch faster, cost less and work with your existing processes. Is that even possible?Yes. Model Context Protocol is an open standard that does exactly this — it connects AI models to your existing systems through a single integration layer you can build on over time.In this episode we cover:what MCP actually is and how it works as a shared "conversation layer" between AI and business systemswhere MCP delivers the most value in practice — we walk through use cases across manufacturing, logistics, construction, IoT security and retailwhy point-to-point integrations slow down future projects — and how MCP changes thatwhat groundwork (especially around data) needs to happen first so integration is predictable and securewhat MCP implementation looks like step by step, without restructuring your entire IT architectureLearn more:➡️ Explore BridgeAI™ — the approach we use to implement MCP.➡️ If you want to assess whether your data and environment are ready for MCP, you can book a free Polaris audit. We offer two each month, and you'll receive a report with a prioritized action map within two weeks — no obligations.Book a free Polaris audit.

September 22, 202530 min

Integrate AI into legacy systems using Model Context Protocol (MCP)

How can AI work with legacy systems—without costly overhauls?In this episode, we break down Model Context Protocol (MCP): a communication layer that connects AI with your existing systems. You’ll hear not only what MCP can do, but also where its limits are and how to prepare your data before connecting it.You’ll learn:Why most AI projects stall at proof of concept—and how MCP helps break that deadlock.What Model Context Protocol actually is and how it functions as a hub between AI and legacy systems.The limitations of MCP and what it cannot solve on its own.The business benefits of this integration model—from lower costs and risks to stronger data control.How rollout times shrink from weeks to days when MCP replaces brittle point-to-point integrations.Three practical ways to break data out of silos before plugging MCP in.MCP transforms legacy systems from dead weight into an active resource—accessible, consistent, and ready for AI.👉 Want to explore how this could work in your organization? Get in touch: inwedo.com/contact

July 31, 202525 min

Modernizing legacy systems: 3 strategies, building business‑case, and embedding security

Legacy applications still power the business—but their hidden costs and complexity block innovation. In this episode, we lay out a practical modernization playbook—from tactical quick wins through strategic re-platforming to full rebuilds—helping you weigh risk, cost, and impact while keeping day-to-day operations on track.✔ You’ll learn:why modernising can’t wait—even when “everything still works”how to frame a board-ready business case that shifts spend from upkeep to growththree modernisation routes—incremental tweaks, strategic re-platforming, or a full rebuild—and how to decide which fits best ways to weave security in from day one, not bolt it on later clear signals for when to lean on an external technology partner If you’re running systems that can’t go offline—but can’t stay stuck in the past—this episode is for you.Want a closer look at phased modernisation in your own environment? Explore Inwedo Continuum™ approach:https://inwedo.com/services/legacy-application-modernization/

July 8, 202525 min

Food processing automation: 5 areas to begin with and a clear implementation roadmap

In this episode, we break down how to implement software automation in food processing plants — in a way that keeps your production running smoothly and avoids unnecessary risks.✔ You’ll learn:where to begin so your investment pays off,five key areas that typically bring the fastest, most measurable results,how to approach the process — from analysis and pilot projects to full rollout and ongoing improvements.We also cover practical examples and straightforward tips on how to start — based on what’s already working for companies that reduced waste, improved planning, and tightened HACCP controls.If you run operations and are tired of manual reports, scattered data, or last-minute schedule chaos, this one’s for you.Want to see what this could look like in your own plant — and which steps make sense to start with? Check it out here:https://inwedo.com/solutions/process-automation/

May 15, 202523 min

Automation in food manufacturing: how to stay competitive and reduce waste

Food manufacturers face rising energy prices, workforce shortages, and tighter sustainability requirements. Every rejected batch or wasted resource means real costs and lost opportunities. In this episode, we'll talk about how automation is helping companies address these challenges effectively.You'll learn:How automation realistically improves efficiency and increases production throughputWays to cut raw material waste through precise dosing and real-time process controlWhy integrated planning and better demand forecasting reduce costly overproductionReal examples of automating quality control to avoid defects and customer returnsSpecific areas where automation brings quick wins—from digital process monitoring to internal logisticsIf you're responsible for innovation, process improvement, or operational excellence in food production, this episode gives practical insights grounded in actual industry experience.If you are wondering where to start with automation in your company or how to improve existing processes, we’re here to help you out. Contact us for a free consultation: https://inwedo.com/contact/

April 9, 202523 min

Digital transformation in manufacturing: From Excel to IoT, Automation, and AI

Plenty of factories still run on spreadsheets and gut feeling. Data’s scattered, systems don’t talk to each other, and the promise of “Industry 4.0” often feels out of reach.In this episode, we talk about what it really takes to move from manual processes to connected, data-driven production — without getting lost in tools or over-engineering the process.We break the journey down into three practical stages:Laying the groundwork: integrating data and digitising what’s already there,Getting smarter: using IoT and automation to react in real time,Going advanced: applying AI and predictive analytics to optimise performance.We also look at the common reasons why digital transformation fails — and what you can do to avoid those pitfalls.Thinking about starting your own transformation? Let’s talk. Book a free consultation and we’ll help you figure out what’s worth doing first — and why: https://inwedo.com/contact/

February 2, 2024Episode 749 min

Digital Transformation: Challenges, Strategies, and Digital Maturity

In this episode, Michaël Tartar discusses the importance of digitalisation for companies and the obstacles they may face. He introduces the Digital Internet Maturity Model, a framework he developed to assess a company's digital maturity. Michaël emphasises the need for coherence and balance in digitalisation efforts, and shares examples of gradual changes that can lead to significant business growth. He also highlights the importance of leadership and encourages companies to dare to try new digital tools and technologies. Michaël Tartar is a CEO and Founder of DIMM.UP — a platform for diagnosing digital maturity and steering companies' digital transformation. With 30 years of experience, a background in consulting, and a deep understanding of the digital landscape, he co-developed the Digital Internet Maturity Model to help companies assess and improve their digital capabilities. He also co-authored a book, "La transformation digitale pour tous" (Digital Transformation for All), which offers insights and strategies for navigating the complexities of digitalisation in business. Connect with Michaël: LinkedIn DIMM.UP website Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (00:52) In today’s episode (01:34) Understanding digital transformation (04:44) Obstacles to digitalisation (11:00) Digitalisation is more than just automation (16:20) Importance of gradual changes — for business growth and people (19:50) The Digital Internet Maturity Model (23:50) Different areas of digital maturity (30:05) Why every company should assess their digital maturity level (35:19) The importance of coherence in digitalisation (38:40) Companies' perception vs. reality in digital maturity (42:42) Quick Wins in Digitalisation (46:46) Summary and Takeaways Get in touch: inwedo.com LinkedIn Facebook Instagram

December 21, 2023Episode 641 min

Business Automation: Freeing Up People’s Time and Potential

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of business process automation. Our guest - Agata Solnica, Chief Partnership Officer at Inwedo - reveals how automation can revolutionize businesses, streamlining tasks and centralizing data for better decision-making. Learn about the shift from traditional methods to digital solutions, the pitfalls of over-reliance on Excel, and strategies for effective automation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to optimize their business processes through technology. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (01:02) Welcome (01:34) Common business challenges that can be solved with software (04:47) Can using too many tools become an issue? (10:26) Accumulating different tools or opting for a custom solution? (13:30) What is Business Process Automation? (14:43) Custom BPA solutions examples (18:22) Benefits of BPA solutions (20: 32) Limitations of BPA solutions (23:58) Challenges faced when implementing automation tools (27:00) Importance of targeting users' needs (28:15) When is the right time to invest in a custom-made application? (33:56) Unnecessary custom business process automation - real-life scenarios (39:51) Agata's favourite sci-fi movies or series