#Japan #Tokyo #digital solutions #AI Transformation #Epco

Epco Launches AI Transformation Department

In a significant step towards digital advancement, Epco Inc., headquartered in Sumida, Tokyo, has announced the establishment of its new AI Transformation Department (AX) to be launched on August 3, 2026. This initiative aims at amplifying the utilization of AI within the company by leveraging know-how developed during its digital transformation journey in the construction industry.

The Rationale Behind Establishing the AX Department

The rapid evolution of generative AI and other technologies has shifted the paradigm from merely optimizing business operations to transforming the processes themselves and generating new sources of value. Since its inception, Epco has been committed to enhancing productivity and quality in the housing sector. The company has continuously promoted digitalization through prefabrication of facility works, standardization of design specifications, and the utilization of Building Information Modeling (BIM).

The data and insights accumulated through these initiatives are anticipated to serve as vital foundations for maximizing the benefits of AI application across the organization.

Additionally, the fast-paced changes in AI technology, social trends, and corporate developments highlight the necessity for ongoing information collection and analysis. If AI projects are pursued independently across various departments, the challenges of inadequate knowledge accumulation and limited return on investment can arise. To address these issues, the AX department is established as a central organization to leverage Epco's architectural DX experience and accelerate AI initiatives organization-wide.

Goals and Functions of the AX Department

The AX Department is tasked with researching the latest technologies and market trends in AI and DX, alongside exploring how these insights can be leveraged within the company’s operations. Based on their research and considerations, the department will provide proposals and recommendations to management and various divisions, aiming to promote comprehensive business transformations, boost productivity, and create new business value.

Rather than being a development team, the AX Department will operate as a Center of Excellence (CoE) to support and advance AI initiatives across the company. The department will primarily focus on knowledge accumulation and research functionalities to achieve "AI applications that are practical and lead to impactful results."

Core Responsibilities of the AX Department

• - Continuous research and analysis of rapidly evolving AI technologies and application cases.
• - Collection and analysis of case studies from other companies.
• - Exploration of potential AI themes to address internal challenges.
• - Provision of proposals and advice to various business departments.
• - Planning and support for proof of concept experiments as required.
• - Sharing knowledge through training sessions, knowledge materials, and regular reports.

Targeted Areas for AI Utilization

The AX Department will primarily investigate AI application in several key operational areas, including:

• - Design operations (automation and enhancement of reception, drawing, and inspection processes).
• - Call center operations (optimization of customer interaction, automation of FAQ responses, and quality improvement).
• - Construction management (streamlining scheduling, contractor selection, and inspection tasks).
• - Administrative functions (automation of operations and simplification of tasks).

Future Developments

Initially, the AX Department aims to create concrete examples of AI applications within the company and accumulate knowledge for possible operational implementations. Subsequently, these initiatives will be expanded organization-wide, promoting service enhancement via AI utilization, ultimately improving customer value delivery.

Epco remains committed to harnessing AI and digital technologies to elevate its business operations and productivity, striving to maximize value for customers and society at large.

Company Overview

Epco Group pursues the goal of 'CARBON NEUTRALITY' with its purpose centered around 'HCDs (Housing Carbon Neutrality Digital Solutions).' By focusing on the theme of 'decarbonization x Construction DX' through three lines of business (design, maintenance, renewable energy), the company supports living environments and the global ecosystem leveraging digital technologies.

Epco also positions TEPCO Home Tech Corp, established in partnership with Tokyo Electric Power Company Energy Partner, as an allied enterprise to foster synergistic partnerships between the Epco Group and its partners. Through 'decarbonization x Construction DX,' the company resolves social challenges and meets the expectations of its stakeholders.

Company Name: Epco Inc. (Tokyo Stock Exchange Standard 2311)
Location: 12th Floor, Orinas Tower, 4-1-3 Taihei, Sumida, Tokyo
Website: Epco Corporation