The Role of Technology in Ownership Transfer

Authors

Lana Podlipnik Giacomelli
University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
Domen Deu
Dines, d. o. o.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.18690/um.fov.5.2025.5

Synopsis

Ownership transfer in family businesses is a complex process affecting long-term success. This study examines how Dines Ltd. manages intergenerational transfer and integrates technology into this process. Data were collected through an interview with the company’s future leader and analyzed qualitatively, comparing findings with relevant literature. Results indicate that gradual transfer of responsibility and building trust between generations facilitate successful leadership succession. This approach gives the successor time to develop essential skills. Technology is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and supports the transfer process through digitalization and the use of artificial intelligence. AI is applied in marketing, communication, succession planning, and evaluating potential successors. However, challenges arise from the conservative attitude of older generations toward adopting new technologies, contrasting with the younger generation’s innovative approach. Encouraging an open environment for creativity can bridge this gap and enhance intergenerational cooperation.

Author Biographies

Lana Podlipnik Giacomelli, University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering

Lana Podlipnik Giacomelli is a first-year student at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Ljubljana. Before that, she attended Gimnazija Ledina, where she was most drawn to exploring natural sciences and technical subjects. She is particularly interested in areas related to innovation, sustainable technologies, and environmental engineering. In the future, she wishes to participate in projects that connect technical knowledge with developmental solutions to the challenges of modern society. She aims to further deepen her research in the field of advanced technologies and technical development, especially in the area of green development.

Ljubljana, Slovenia. E-mail: lana.giacomelli@gmail.com

Domen Deu, Dines, d. o. o.

Domen Deu is a Slovenian entrepreneur associated with the family-owned company Dines, d. o. o., founded in 1989, which specializes in heating, ventilation and air conditioning. In 2017, he completed his diploma thesis at GEA College – Faculty of Entrepreneurship entitled "Innovative business model for the growth of Dines, d.o.o.", in which he analyzed the company's existing business model and proposed innovative strategies for its growth. In his work, he focuses on introducing modern solutions in the field of energy efficiency and sustainable development, thereby contributing to the continued success of Dines, d. o. o..

Ljubljana, Slovenia. E-mail: domen@dines.si

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Volume

Izzivi prenosa vodenja na naslednjo generacijo v družinskem podjetju

Pages

165-210

Published

August 1, 2025

Categories

Copyright (c) 2025 University of Maribor, University of Maribor Press

License

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

Podlipnik Giacomelli, L., & Deu, D. (2025). The Role of Technology in Ownership Transfer. In M. Marič & D. Deu (Eds.), Izzivi prenosa vodenja na naslednjo generacijo v družinskem podjetju (pp. 165-210). University of Maribor Press. https://doi.org/10.18690/um.fov.5.2025.5