Avtohiša Mlakar d.o.o. is a Slovenian company operating in the field of vehicle sales and related services. As part of the EDIH DIGI-SI project, the company, in cooperation with the University of Maribor, carried out targeted consulting activities aimed at improving cybersecurity and exploring the potential use of artificial intelligence in accounting and business processes.
The consulting was delivered through individual, structured sessions focused on assessing the company’s digital maturity, existing security practices and readiness to introduce AI-supported solutions. Particular emphasis was placed on identifying risks related to system access, password management, data backups and the use of business email.
In the field of accounting, a proof-of-concept (POC) concept was defined for a digital accounting assistant based on the use of AI tools. The proposed solution includes automated invoice recognition and classification, support for bookkeeping, anomaly detection, report generation and basic cash-flow forecasting. Special attention was given to data security, compliance and traceability.
The solution represents a practical and transferable example of how an SME with limited resources can verify the use of advanced digital technologies in a structured and secure way, while establishing the foundations for further digital transformation.
The implementation began with an analysis of the existing situation, during which the company’s digital and accounting practices, as well as key aspects of cybersecurity, were reviewed. Based on this analysis, risks and opportunities for improvement were identified, particularly in the areas of access management, security policies and employee awareness.
This was followed by a content-focused review of the potential use of artificial intelligence in accounting processes. Together with the company, the objectives, scope and functionalities of the proof of concept for the AI-supported solution were defined. The process included discussion of data sources, integration with existing systems such as ERP solutions and bank statements, security requirements and regulatory compliance.
The final phase focused on preparing concrete recommendations, defining key performance indicators, and outlining a plan for pilot implementation and employee training. This phased approach enabled the company to assess the technical and organisational feasibility of the proposed solutions with low risk and to clearly define the next steps.
Cooperation with EDIH DIGI-SI brought Avtohiša Mlakar d.o.o. concrete and directly applicable results.
The company gained:
- a clear overview of existing cybersecurity risks and recommendations for reducing them,
- a structured set of measures to improve security practices, including MFA, access management and security policies,
- a defined proof of concept for AI-supported automation of accounting processes,
- greater readiness for data-driven decision-making,
- foundations for the further digital upgrade of its business operations.
This example contributes to greater digital resilience and cybersecurity among micro-enterprises and promotes the responsible use of artificial intelligence in business processes. By automating routine tasks, the solution reduces the administrative burden and improves the quality of financial management.
