Event Report：ABS Hosts a Two-Day Hands-on Workshop on AI-Driven Business Analysis

On January 6-7,2026,ABS hosted a two-day hands-on workshop focused on the practical use of AI in business analysis, led by Professor Charlie Chen from Appalachian State University, who is also Visiting Professor of Aoyama Gakuin University.

On Day 1, participants were divided into Team NIKE and Team ON Running and explored the question: How should companies compete in the Japanese running shoe market?

Using generative AI, teams analysed market conditions and competitive strategies, experiencing how AI can support strategic thinking and decision-making. The day concluded with a debate between the teams. The debate was recorded, and the audio data was later analysed using AI, allowing participants to reflect on the structure, arguments, and dynamics of their discussions in a novel and insightful way.

On Day 2, each team designed a business plan by selecting a combination of a city and a business challenge. Participants worked either from the perspective of Japanese companies aiming to expand overseas or entrepreneurs launching new ventures abroad.

The workshop concluded with elevator pitches, which were also analysed using AI. This enabled each participant to gain objective feedback and use the analysis as a resource for deeper individual learning.

Through this workshop, participants experienced AI not merely as a tool for generating answers, but as a partner for enhancing critical thinking, debate, and reflection.

ABS remains committed to providing practice-oriented, internationally connected learning opportunities that integrate advanced technologies with business education.

Day 1

Day 2