Nurturing AI Talent Through Innovative Model: Prototype as a Learning

Tokyo, June 28, 2025 - Are you struggling to feel the benefits of AI in your operations, despite implementing ChatGPT and Claude? You are not alone. Many companies investing in AI face the question, "What has really changed by adopting AI?" With outsourced systems often becoming black boxes, companies frequently end up incurring hefty expenses for updates, compounded by the inability to modify legacy code left behind by previous developers.

In response to this, Datag Inc. (Digital HQ) and Genki Labs (Singapore) have partnered to address the pressing challenges faced by Japanese SMEs in utilizing AI effectively. They have launched the collaborative initiative, "Prototype as a Learning", aimed at cultivating bridge talent capable of solving on-ground problems with technology. This innovative approach offers a flexible four-step framework for hands-on AI talent development and internalization.

Why Now? Addressing AI Talent Development Challenges

The traditional methods of AI talent development have failed to address several crucial issues:

1. Shortage of Bridge Talent: While more individuals are skilled in using AI tools, there is a glaring lack of personnel who can comprehend and implement solutions for specific on-ground issues using technology.

2. Lack of Practical Learning Opportunities: Although theoretical training and tool experiences are abundant, the chances to learn through developing functional prototypes are scarce.

3. Absence of Progressive Growth Models: The existing dichotomy of either full outsourcing or sudden internalization leaves little room for gradual and practical advancement.

These issues contribute to the feeling of fatigue around AI implementation, leading to minimal improvements in operational efficiency and escalating external costs.

Both Datag Inc. and Genki Labs, both led by AI engineers, combined their unique strengths to tackle these challenges. Datag’s expertise in logistics, supply chain, marketing, and robotics complements Genki Labs’ global development prowess in financial and distribution web applications. Together, they provide a comprehensive initiative that merges theoretical learning with practical application.

A Visible Four-Step Model: Tailored to Your Company's Needs

Prototype as a Learning allows businesses to initiate the program from the most suitable step for their situation, delivering tangible results at every stage:

Step 1: Prototype Development Orders

- Before: Completely relying on external parties, leading to a lack of transparency.
- After: Having a working prototype with an understanding of the development process.
- Specific Deliverables: A functional prototype (web application), documentation visualizing development processes, a criteria document for technology selection, and guidance for communicating with outsourcing partners.

Step 2: Collaborative Development

- Before: Unclear on the process and outcomes.
- After: Ability to improve and make decisions independently.
- Specific Deliverables: An updated prototype (functionality enhancements, UI improvements), a manual for revisions and expansions, a practical AI utilization guide, and a prototype review framework within the company.

Step 3: Digesting into a Training Program

- Before: Talent remaining at an individual skill level.
- After: The entire organization can replicate the achieved results.
- Specific Deliverables: Internal training programs with practical curriculums, a standardized template collection (requirements, design documents), and establishing skill assessment and management systems and AI utilization guidelines.

Step 4: Self-Sustainment Support

- Before: Continued need for assistance.
- After: Complete independence with sustainable growth.
- Specific Deliverables: Establishment of an in-house development structure, a continuous improvement process, achieving technological self-reliance, and a plan for cultivating the next generation of talent.

Companies with existing prototypes can start at Step 2, those with development experience can begin at Step 3, while companies needing a significant push can initiate at Step 4. For those starting from scratch, Step 1 is readily available.

Vision for the Future: 1,000 Bridge Talents in Japan

We aspire to cultivate professionals who understand on-ground challenges and can propose solutions using appropriate technologies. Our goal is to produce 1,000 AI generalist talents across Japan within the next three years. This foundational talent pool will enable SMEs, even in remote areas, to adapt to the AI landscape and lead in the coming era.

Results from Past Support Initiatives

Studies conducted with generative AI and cloud tools have revealed significant improvements, such as:

- Reduced Development Speed: Dramatic cuts in the timeline from prototype creation to operational use, in some cases within weeks to two months.
- Cost Structure Optimization: Developing AI skills led to a decrease in ongoing development costs.
- Enhanced Quality of Work: Web development processes became more straightforward, allowing front-line teams to swiftly create drafts and simplifying communication with external vendors. Data analysis operations shifted from manual tasks to automation, leading to standardized procedures and improved accuracy.

Limited Free Consultation Campaign for the First 5 Companies

Take advantage of our current offer for a 60-minute consultation to assess your situation and identify the most effective starting point from the four steps.

Free Offer Includes:

- Comprehensive assessment of your current challenges (60-minute session)
- Diagnosis of the optimal starting point
- Demonstration of prototype development
- Formulation of an AI talent development roadmap

Let us help you eliminate AI fatigue and empower your workforce through hands-on learning. No matter where you start, we will support you in progressing from your current state.

Contact us: [email protected]

Company Information
Datag Inc. datag.io
Genki Labs genki-labs-sg.github.io