Editor: Mr. Sperling, you have been involved in the technical and strategic development of communication for many years. What has changed the most in the last five years?

Frank Sperling, Dipl.-Ing. (FH), AR Agency
Frank Sperling: We are currently experiencing a turning point in communication. I see the biggest change in the convergence of technology and content. Communication today is no longer just text or images—it is immersive, dialogue-oriented, and often data-driven. This applies to both internal and external processes. At the same time, artificial intelligence has ushered in a new era: it analyzes, predicts, formulates, and can even design. This changes everything—not only the how, but also the why.
Editor: What do you mean by “the why”?
Frank Sperling: Communication used to be a means to an end: informing, persuading, selling. Today, users expect added value, interaction, and individuality. The question is no longer just: What do I want to say? But rather: Why should someone listen, participate, identify with me? AI and digital systems help us provide personalized answers to these questions. Companies that understand this no longer communicate “to” target groups—they enter into relationships.
Editor: You talk about a relationship. How important is emotionality in times of digital communication?
Frank Sperling: Extremely important. Technological tools such as AI, chatbots, avatars, and augmented reality are just that—tools. But what really matters is the emotional intelligence that you program into communication, whether through storytelling, design, or language. People respond to emotions, not data. When you talk to an avatar, you don’t expect a sober system, but an empathetic counterpart. This applies to B2C as well as B2B.
Editor: In your opinion, what role will artificial intelligence play in the future of corporate communications?
Frank Sperling: A central one. AI is no longer just a “tool,” but an intelligent partner. It takes on repetitive tasks, helps monitor trends, formulates initial drafts of texts, provides translations, and can even simulate tones of voice. It is important that it is controlled and ethically integrated. Because AI is powerful—but not infallible. Responsibility for content still lies with humans.
Editor: How do you see developments in the field of avatars? Will they become a genuine channel of communication?
Frank Sperling: Absolutely. Avatars are a fascinating interface between humans and machines. They make digital communication visible and tangible. Whether as virtual assistants at trade fairs, brand ambassadors on websites, or interactive advisors in training systems—the possibilities are endless. When combined with AI, something new emerges: a realistic dialogue with a virtual personality. This is no longer a vision of the future, but in many cases a reality.
Editor: Isn’t there a great risk of dehumanization here?
Frank Sperling: The danger arises when technology is viewed in isolation. But smart communication does not use technology to replace people, but rather to deepen contact. A well-programmed avatar can, for example, guide people through complicated processes, answer questions around the clock, or make complex content understandable. And it does so in the desired language and tone. Such systems create access, not distance.
Editor: Which technologies do you currently consider to be particularly influential for the development of communication?
Frank Sperling: In addition to AI and avatars, augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) also have great potential in my opinion. They transform flat information into three-dimensional experiences. This is revolutionary for training, product presentations, and brand communication. Imagine seeing a virtual model directly in the room instead of reading instructions—it changes how we absorb and process content. Added to this is increased accessibility: WebAR no longer requires an app, which significantly lowers barriers.
Editor: What challenges do you see for companies that want to embrace these new communication channels?
Frank Sperling: The biggest challenge lies in the mindset. Many companies still see new forms of communication as a gimmick—or as an investment without immediate ROI. But this is about strategic brand management. You have to be willing to break with old patterns and think in new ways—agile, bold, creative. Technically, a lot is possible. But it takes courage to change and a clear goal.
Editor: And how can one actually begin this journey?
Frank Sperling: In small steps, but consistently. First, you should analyze: Where are my communication gaps? What effect do I want to achieve? Which target groups do I want to reach better? Then you can select specific technologies. A pilot project with an avatar, a WebAR application, an AI-supported text process—it doesn’t have to be huge, but it does have to be well thought out. And: A strong partner with experience makes it easier to get started.
Editor: In your opinion, what role does agency work play in this development?
Frank Sperling: A big one. Agencies such as Logan Five, for example, combine strategy, design, technology, and communication at a high level. They translate complex requirements into understandable, functioning solutions—and they think along with you. That’s crucial. Because it’s not just about installing tools, it’s about rethinking communication. Agencies that master this are not service providers, but true innovation partners.
Editor: Is there a communication channel that you consider to be overrated or even obsolete?
Frank Sperling: No—every channel has its place if it is used correctly. What I do find problematic, however, is the proliferation of channels without a clear strategy. Just because a trend emerges on TikTok doesn’t mean you have to jump on it right away. Companies need a clear communication architecture. Quality beats quantity. It’s better to have three well-maintained, effective channels than ten half-hearted ones.
Editor: And if you could make a wish, what would communication look like in five years?
Frank Sperling: I would like to see communication that is truthful, dialogical, and supported by sensible technology. Communication that touches people, but at the same time respects their time. And communication that sees technology not as an end in itself, but as a bridge—between information and understanding, between companies and people.
Editor: Mr. Sperling, thank you very much for this inspiring conversation about artificial intelligence in Coburg.