Tokyu Corporation Enhances Citizen Development through Kintone AI Innovations

Tokyu Corporation's Innovative Use of Kintone AI

Overcoming IT Dependency through Citizen Development

Tokyu Corporation, a leader in transportation and lifestyle services, has recently released a case study showcasing its innovative use of Kintone AI from Cybozu Inc. The company is strategically integrating AI to facilitate business improvements without overwhelming dependence on IT knowledge, thereby fostering an environment for local involvement in development efforts.

The introduction of Kintone AI has allowed Tokyu to streamline searches related to accounting issues and provide robust support for application development, making it feasible for team members with no specialized IT background to harness AI technology. This initiative is not just about improving workflows; it's about creating an inclusive atmosphere where all members of the team can engage with AI technology effortlessly.

Building a Foundation for Effective Operational Enhancement

Tokyu operates in a diverse array of sectors, including railway and bus services, along with various lifestyle services centered in Shibuya. Acknowledging the necessity for operational efficiency and the advancement of digital strategies, the company established a Citizen Development Bureau aimed at reducing reliance on specialized IT personnel by 2025. This bureau promotes a culture of utilizing digital tools for business improvements driven by on-ground professionals.

One major challenge they faced was the knowledge retention regarding recurring specific accounting issues, which previously led to inefficiencies in operations. This gap in knowledge management was addressed through Kintone's AI-powered search capabilities, which streamline access to historical insights, improving overall operational quality and efficiency.

Citizen Development and AI Integration at Work

Utilizing Kintone’s search and application development AI, Tokyu has successfully tailored AI applications to meet specific on-the-ground needs. Within the Finance Strategy Office, they developed a framework that allows for the storage and retrieval of documents related to accounting issues and company protocols, tackling previous searchability deficiencies. This enhancement has not only accelerated information access but has also influenced a cross-departmental utilization of resources and improved training efficiency for new team members.

Meanwhile, the Citizen Development Bureau encourages teams to use the application development AI to create templates in real-time based on their requirements. Employee feedback highlights a newfound confidence in their ability to craft applications themselves, making Kintone AI a catalyst for both efficiency and a proactive approach towards citizen development.

Establishing a Sustainable AI Utilization Loop

Tokyu aims to expand the use of Kintone AI beyond a handful of departments. By sharing success stories across the company and demonstrating tangible examples of how such tools can be applied, they are fostering a mindset of personal engagement with AI among employees.

The Citizen Development Bureau is currently supporting over 60 projects, involving employees extensively to facilitate real-world application and understanding of AI tools. This hands-on approach is intended to create a foundational loop where employees can connect with AI, deepen their comprehension, and effectively apply their skills in everyday situations.

Additionally, Kintone AI will align with the overarching corporate AI guidelines, ensuring the implementation of digital tools is secure and effective. This commitment to governance allows Tokyu to harness Kintone AI as a primary engine for accelerating the entire organization's AI engagement.

Discover More about Tokyu’s Implementation of Kintone

For additional insights into Tokyu's practical application of Kintone, visit the dedicated case study page on the Kintone product site at Kintone.

Understanding Kintone

Kintone is a no-code/low-code tool utilized by over 42,000 companies, including 46% of the firms listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime. It empowers organizations to develop applications tailored to their operations, regardless of their IT knowledge. With its core features of database management, workflow, and communication, Kintone supports a wide array of functions, enabling continuous, grassroots business enhancements.

For more information, please visit the official Kintone website.