Back @ IT Show

Back @ IT: Challenging Traditional AI Notions with Transparency with Romi Mahajan

Episode Summary

The more AI is democratized the more practical uses are surfacing. However, there are still some notions that are creating misconceptions. In this “Back @ IT” episode, Aaron Back chats with Romi Mahajan to unpack this topic more.

Episode Notes

Still today, “tribal knowledge” is a big hindrance to true technology adoption. Further, traditional AI notions have hurt any true momentum on its adoption.

The tribal knowledge comes from the mindset of the cliche of “we have always done it this way”, or the sense of job security.

What can be done to challenge these notions and create a more transparent AI approach?

Highlights

01:15: AI is impacting the way we work and resetting our expectations. However, what most people consider AI is what Romi refers to as “real AI” or “rhetorical AI”.
02:38: Romi highlighted that current AI models are, at their core, just “manipulation of data”. They aren’t really intelligent. But, many perceive them that way, as AI has become more democratized in our everyday life.
07:13: According to Schumpeterian logic, as the cycle goes down, new technology will create new jobs. But, the planning of artificial intelligence needs to carefully roll out. It has to be in concert with governments, educational institutions, and more.

I actually look at data like water…it’s necessary for life… However, you can have a flood and be inundated.

11:52: The agricultural industry is seeing great benefit from the use of AI to understand weather, water usage, and growth patterns.
15:30: Currently, the real estate industry is leveraging AI to impact the listing of houses. By using a cell phone, they can scan the house to understand its condition, the quality of appliances, the shape of the house, and more. They can translate the input into a real-time output to determine the value of your house.
19:34: Romi stressed the importance to truly understand what AI is all about. And, to beware of false claims, but embrace the real claims.

If you are still struggling with the notion of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing, I encourage you to read the articles on the “AI/ML” section.

AI is here and real. It’s not science fiction. It may be difficult to understand the practical use. But, go in with an open mind and a plan.

Lastly, if you are looking for AI solutions, but aren’t sure which companies are out there, then check out the “Enterprise AI Battleground” channel.