Yuuki: AI Experience

Artificial intelligence is revolutionising the ways companies work and enabling a more efficient use of resources. However, its rapid development is presenting traditional learning methods with new challenges. Instead of rigid training formats, a learning culture is required that is based on curiosity, cooperation and the sharing of individual expertise – independent of hierarchies.

In order to foster this change at Takeda Pharma, onto[story] developed an interactive format that makes it possible to experience the use of AI in everyday working life in a playful manner. The idea was to use AI not only as a topic but also as content and as a method. The centrepiece was the virtual protagonist Yuuki – a digital avatar that acted as a testimonial, storytelling character and expert. She created a collaborative learning environment as a gamified live escape room experience and encouraged the participants to use AI tools. Diversity played a central role in this: the open, interactive approach resulted in a forum for communication and joint discoveries. The aim was to treat AI not only as a topic but also to anchor it as an integral part of the learning process.

Yuuki was developed with the help of a motion capture AI app and interacted both live and virtually with the participants. She presented a virtual keynote, moderated discussions and guided over 400 employees through a scenario designed to promote cooperation and the creative handling of AI. She is now an official team member and drives the in-house use of AI forwards.

Yuuki’s first international presence was as part of a threeday training session at Takeda Switzerland. She realised her escape room completely virtually for the first time at a digital event about the use of AI. The result was a new, interactive learning experience for over 2000 participants from Europe, the USA and Canada.