We believe AI in mid-sized companies must be introduced differently.

Not with hype. Not with large-scale projects. But with clarity, results and a partner who understands how mid-sized companies actually work.

A word from the founder.

10+ years of IT consulting, software development and digital transformation.

Over the past 10+ years, I have guided companies through digital transformation – as a software developer, IT consultant and entrepreneur. I co-developed infotainment systems for premium OEMs, built mobile apps and supported mid-sized companies in their digitalization.

What I've seen time and again: technology rarely fails because of the technology. It fails because of a lack of clarity.

When generative AI emerged, it quickly became clear to me: this will change everything – but only for those who approach it the right way.

I've watched companies launch expensive AI pilots that never make it to production. Employees using ChatGPT on their own. Business leaders sensing they need to act – but not knowing where to start.

I founded TRAIL1 because the mid-market needs a different approach. Not a 200-page strategy report. But someone who listens, understands and delivers a result within days.

Ferhat Y.
Ferhat Y.
Founder, TRAIL1

Why TRAIL1 exists.

Mid-sized companies are the backbone of the German economy – yet they risk falling behind when it comes to AI adoption.

The large consulting firms serve enterprises. The freelancer scene sells templates. In between, there's a gap.

Who guides the CEO of a 50-, 200- or 500-person company on how AI can improve their day-to-day operations?

We close that gap.

Practice, not theory. Results, not promises.

10+
years of IT consulting
SME
mid-market focus

Five reasons why clients work with us.

Practice, honesty and data privacy as a feature – not an obstacle.

Practice over theory

Our background is software development, IT consulting and digital product engineering. We know what legacy IT landscapes look like.

Outcomes over technology

Every project starts with the question: what should be different at the end? Not: which technology do we use?

Privacy as a feature

European data protection is a quality standard for us. Our solutions are GDPR-compliant from the start.

Honesty

If AI isn't the right solution, we'll say so. If a macro is enough, we won't build an AI agent.

Intentionally small

You work directly with the people who design and implement your solution. No communication loss.

The people behind TRAIL1.

Intentionally small. You work directly with the people who design and implement your solution.

Ferhat Y.

Ferhat Y.

Founder

10+ years of IT consulting and software development. OEM consulting, startup development, mid-market digitalization.

AI strategyWorkflow automationGDPR architecture

Amelie F.

Communications & Content

Trained educator with an instinct for clear language. Distills AI topics to their essence – in client communications, content and workshops. Because clarity is the first step to trust.

Content strategyClient communications

TRAIL1 and Smart IT-Systems.

TRAIL1 is the AI consulting division of Smart IT-Systems – an established technology services provider.

When an AI project also requires traditional software development or UX design, we draw on the full range of expertise.

smart-itsystems.de →
10+
years of IT consulting
OEM
automotive experience
SME
mid-market focus
EU
GDPR-first approach

Our values.

What drives us and how we make decisions.

Results over methodology

What counts is the outcome in your company.

Honesty over politeness

We tell you what works and what doesn't.

Enablement over dependency

We transfer knowledge – not just systems.

Privacy over speed

We'd rather take an extra week and be GDPR-compliant.

Start small over plan big

A working pilot beats any strategy presentation.

We prefer to get to know every company in person.

Tell us what's on your mind – we'll honestly say whether and how we can help.

Schedule a free consultation →
30 minutes
Free of charge
Confidential