IT and AI systems

Digital systems such as Microsoft 365, new HR software and generative AI shape everyday work and change tasks, autonomy and skills requirements. The data collected, the ways they are analysed and the decisions based on them have direct consequences for employees.

We advise works and staff councils on technical functions, data protection and the effects on work organisation and occupational safety and health. We combine IT expertise with strategic support, from reviewing documents to drafting works or service agreements.

Understanding systems and using co-determination

What functions does a system offer? Which employee data are processed, and what analyses are possible? We help your council request and evaluate the necessary documents. We examine system functions, data flows, roles and permissions, interfaces and logging.

For works councils, co-determination under Sec. 87(1) No. 6 of the Works Constitution Act (WCA) is a central tool where technical systems are capable of monitoring employee performance or behaviour. Staff councils’ participation rights are governed by the applicable staff representation legislation. Together, we clarify your council’s options and identify the provisions needed.

Protecting employee data and limiting monitoring

We work with your council to examine how employee data are collected, processed and used. Together, we develop rules on purposes of use, data access, logging, retention periods, analysis and deletion.

For AI-assisted performance assessments and personnel decisions, we focus particularly on transparency, potential discrimination, human oversight and the ability to review results. We take account of data protection requirements and the provisions of the AI Act applicable to each system.

Shaping work organisation and protecting employee health

Which tasks change when new systems are introduced? Could new pressures, additional monitoring capabilities or different skills requirements arise? We work with your council to examine the effects on workflows, employees’ autonomy and collaboration. This includes work intensification and algorithmic management.

We connect technology assessment with analysis of job requirements and forward-looking risk assessment. Together, we develop requirements for skills development, induction and work design that protects health.

Developing agreements and reviewing implementation

We draft and review works and service agreements, from overarching framework agreements to system-specific, pilot and process agreements. We help your council prepare for negotiations, provide support during negotiations and assist with monitoring and evaluating trial operations.

We develop audit plans and carry out system audits. Together, we clarify which audit and access rights your council needs and check system settings, permissions and analysis capabilities against the agreed requirements. When updates or new features are introduced, we assess whether existing agreements remain adequate.

We also advise your council on using digital tools securely for its own work.

Our topics and systems

Our advisory topics include:

• Cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure and Google Cloud (GCP)

• SAP and ERP systems, including S/4HANA and Microsoft Dynamics 365

• Microsoft 365 / Office 365 and digital collaboration

• Generative AI applications and assistance systems, such as Copilot, Claude, ChatGPT and Gemini

• HR management systems such as Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, Deel and Personio

• CRM systems such as Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics 365

• Business intelligence, data analytics and algorithmic management

• Mobile devices and device management

• Agile work practices, mobile working and working from home

• Manufacturing execution systems (MES) and robotic process automation (RPA)

Introductory course on IT and AI co-determination

Alongside our advisory services, your council can book our introductory course on IT and AI co-determination through our open programme. The course covers the legal and technical foundations and uses practical examples to explore how IT and AI systems can be assessed and regulated from the perspective of employee representatives.

This helps your council make targeted requests for information, identify risks earlier and develop sound positions of its own.