by Kal Kanev
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is probably high on the agenda in your boardroom. Your organization wants to stay in the lead and feels the urge to embrace this promising technology. Just like with any other technology, expectations are sky-high, and experts say that you should already have started by now. At DXC Technology and Hitachi Vantara, we absolutely see the possibilities of AI, but rather prefer a down-to-earth vision. One thing is true, though: you should not wait too long to make your first steps in the world of AI. Because, unlike many other ‘promising’ technologies, AI is here to stay.
This is why in many sectors, a vast majority of market leaders now already have AI in production or at least pilots in progress. And based on their observations in robotic process automation, business experts report great results. Turnovers are rising and costs are decreasing in every business discipline, from HR to supply chain and marketing.
Two aspects of artificial intelligence
The concept of AI essentially includes two aspects: the ability to learn to recognize patterns and structures in existing content and, based on that, generate new content, from text, photos, and videos to even lines of code. The challenge is not to burn your fingers and use AI carefully without violating laws and regulations. There isn’t too much of that yet, but that will change soon. In addition, issues such as ethics, discrimination, data confidentiality, and theft of intellectual property also play an important role. Implementing AI carelessly could seriously damage the reputation of your organization and that of your clients.
Artificial intelligence: 6 tips to think about
However, you should not let all this stop you from at least experimenting with AI. But avoid a false start and do it ‘first time right’. This means with a focus on both the possibilities for your organization and on social responsibilities. DXC Technology and Hitachi Vantara have some tips for you:
- First, ensure clear guidelines within your organization regarding the use of AI
- Ensure governance and organize a steering committee for AI with broad representation from all departments. This steering group can also think about applications and issue guidelines and processes regarding the use of AI.
- Limit the risks and identify in advance how AI can be misused in your organization. Then take preventive measures and set up security properly, including alarms for possible misuse.
- Be aware of the often built-in subjectivity and preferences within AI models. That’s because AI technology, after all, learns from existing content. Remove it and prevent issues.
- Like other technology, AI is man-made and ultimately just a program that you must design and implement under human supervision so that it is used safely.
- Transparency is important. Share knowledge about AI projects widely throughout your organization and be open about the objectives and safety measures taken. Always respond to concerns and questions quickly and accurately. Be open about the potential impact of technology on jobs and tasks. Which tasks will be taken over by AI, and which new jobs may be created?
Don’t let these suggestions stop you from getting started with AI. It’s worth it because AI will grow rapidly in the next decade and beyond. Make sure you hop on the train instead of getting stuck in discussions about whether you should implement AI or not. It is important that you gain experience and build up knowledge in your organization about it. Therefore, make a good start and, as CIO, stay on top of it! AI is here to stay and deserves to be explored in your organization. You will be surprised.
Kal Kanev is Director Global AI Practice at DXC Technology