Ahead of AI & Big Data Expo North America – where the company will showcase its expertise – Chuck Ros, Industry Success Director at SoftServe, provided valuable insights into the company’s AI initiatives, the challenges faced, and its future strategy for leveraging this powerful technology.

Highlighting a recent AI project that exemplifies SoftServe’s innovative approach, Ros discussed the company’s unique solution for a software company in the field service management industry. The vision was to create an easy-to-use, language model-enabled interface that would allow field technicians to access service histories, equipment documentation, and maintenance schedules seamlessly, enhancing productivity and operational efficiency.

“Our AI engineers built a prompt evaluation pipeline that seamlessly considers cost, processing time, semantic similarity, and the likelihood of hallucinations,” Ros explained. “It proved to be an extremely effective architecture that led to improved operational efficiencies for the customer, increased productivity for users in the field, competitive edge for the software company and for their clients, and—perhaps most importantly—a spark for additional innovation.”

While the potential of AI is undeniable, Ros acknowledged the key mistakes businesses often make when deploying AI solutions, emphasising the importance of having a robust data strategy, building adequate data pipelines, and thoroughly testing the models. He also cautioned against rushing to deploy generative AI solutions without properly assessing feasibility and business viability, stating, “We need to pay at least as much attention to whether it should be built as we do to whether it can be built.”

Recognising the critical concern of ethical AI development, Ros stressed the significance of human oversight throughout the entire process. “Managing dynamic data quality, testing and detecting for bias and inaccuracies, ensuring high standards of data privacy, and ethical use of AI systems all require human oversight,” he said. SoftServe’s approach to AI development involves structured engagements that evaluate data and algorithms for suitability, assess potential risks, and implement governance measures to ensure accountability and data traceability.

Looking ahead, Ros envisions AI playing an increasingly vital role in SoftServe’s business strategy, with ongoing refinements to AI-assisted software development lifecycles and the introduction of new tools and processes to boost productivity further. Softserve’s findings suggest that GenAI can accelerate programming productivity by as much as 40 percent.

“I see more models assisting us on a daily basis, helping us write emails and documentation and helping us more and more with the simple, time-consuming mundane tasks we still do,” Ros said. “In the next five years I see ongoing refinement of that view to AI in SDLCs and the regular introduction of new tools, new models, new processes that push that 40 percent productivity hike to 50 percent and 60 percent.”

When asked how SoftServe is leveraging AI for social good, Ros explained the company is delivering solutions ranging from machine learning models to help students discover their passions and aptitudes, enabling personalised learning experiences, to assisting teachers in their daily tasks and making their jobs easier.

“I love this question because one of SoftServe’s key strategic tenets is to power our social purpose and make the world a better place. It’s obviously an ambitious goal, but it’s important to our employees and it’s important to our clients,” explained Ros.

“It’s why we created the Open Eyes Foundation and have collected more than $15 million with the support of the public, our clients, our partners, and of course our employees. We naturally support the Open Eyes Foundation with all manner of technology needs, including AI.”

At the AI & Big Data Expo North America, SoftServe plans to host a keynote presentation titled “Revolutionizing Learning: Unleashing the Power of Generative AI in Education and Beyond,” which will explore the transformative impact of generative AI and large language models in the education sector.

“As we explore the mechanisms through which generative AI leverages data – including training methodologies like fine-tuning and Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) – we will pinpoint high-value, low-risk applications that promise to redefine the educational landscape,” said Ros.

“The journey from a nascent idea to a fully operational AI solution is fraught with challenges, including ethical considerations and risks inherent in deploying AI solutions. Through the lens of a success story at Mesquite ISD, where generative AI was leveraged to help students uncover their passions and aptitudes enabling the delivery of personalised learning experiences, this presentation will illustrate the practical benefits and transformative potential of generative AI in education.”

Additionally, the company will participate in panel discussions on topics such as “Getting to Production-Ready – Challenges and Best Practices for Deploying AI” and “Navigating the Data & AI Landscape – Ensuring Safety, Security, and Responsibility in Big Data and AI Systems.” These sessions will provide attendees with valuable insights from SoftServe’s experts on overcoming deployment challenges, ensuring data quality and user acceptance, and mitigating risks associated with AI implementation.

As a key sponsor of the event, SoftServe aims to contribute to the discourse surrounding the responsible and ethical development of AI solutions, while sharing its expertise and vision for leveraging this powerful technology to drive innovation, enhance productivity, and address global challenges. 

“We are, of course, always interested in both sharing and hearing about the diversity of business cases for applications in AI and big data: the concept of the rising tide lifting all boats is definitely relevant in AI and GenAI in particular, and we’re proud to be a part of the AI technology community,” Ros concludes.

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo.

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Introducing lightweight, industry-specific AI models for individual licence, SAS hopes to equip organisations with readily deployable AI technology to productionise real-world use cases with unparalleled efficiency.

Chandana Gopal, research director, Future of Intelligence, IDC, said: “SAS is evolving its portfolio to meet wider user needs and capture market share with innovative new offerings,

“An area that is ripe for SAS is productising models built on SAS’ core assets, talent and IP from its wealth of experience working with customers to solve industry problems.”

In today’s market, the consumption of models is primarily focused on large language models (LLMs) for generative AI. In reality, LLMs are a very small part of the modelling needs of real-world production deployments of AI and decision making for businesses. With the new offering, SAS is moving beyond LLMs and delivering industry-proven deterministic AI models for industries that span use cases such as fraud detection, supply chain optimization, entity management, document conversation and health care payment integrity and more.

Unlike traditional AI implementations that can be cumbersome and time-consuming, SAS’ industry-specific models are engineered for quick integration, enabling organisations to operationalise trustworthy AI technology and accelerate the realisation of tangible benefits and trusted results.

Expanding market footprint

Organisations are facing pressure to compete effectively and are looking to AI to gain an edge. At the same time, staffing data science teams has never been more challenging due to AI skills shortages. Consequently, businesses are demanding agility in using AI to solve problems and require flexible AI solutions to quickly drive business outcomes. SAS’ easy-to-use, yet powerful models tuned for the enterprise enable organisations to benefit from a half-century of SAS’ leadership across industries.

Delivering industry models as packaged offerings is one outcome of SAS’ commitment of $1 billion to AIpowered industry solutions. As outlined in the May 2023 announcement, the investment in AI builds on SAS’ decades-long focus on providing packaged solutions to address industry challenges in banking, government, health care and more.

Udo Sglavo, VP for AI and Analytics, SAS, said: “Models are the perfect complement to our existing solutions and SAS Viya platform offerings and cater to diverse business needs across various audiences, ensuring that innovation reaches every corner of our ecosystem. 

“By tailoring our approach to understanding specific industry needs, our frameworks empower businesses to flourish in their distinctive Environments.”

Bringing AI to the masses

SAS is democratising AI by offering out-of-the-box, lightweight AI models – making AI accessible regardless of skill set – starting with an AI assistant for warehouse space optimisation. Leveraging technology like large language models, these assistants cater to nontechnical users, translating interactions into optimised workflows seamlessly and aiding in faster planning decisions.

Sgvalo said: “SAS Models provide organisations with flexible, timely and accessible AI that aligns with industry challenges.

“Whether you’re embarking on your AI journey or seeking to accelerate the expansion of AI across your enterprise, SAS offers unparalleled depth and breadth in addressing your business’s unique needs.”

The first SAS Models are expected to be generally available later this year.

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo.

Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here.

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Through the collaboration, OpenAI and Common Sense aim to empower parents, educators, and teens to use AI tools safely and effectively.

Initial projects will include developing AI guidelines and educational materials tailored for different age groups. Additionally, Common Sense will curate a list of family-friendly AI applications on OpenAI’s new GPT Store, lending its expertise in rating content and tech for kids.

“AI offers incredible benefits for families and teens, and our partnership with Common Sense will further strengthen our safety work, ensuring that families and teens can use our tools with confidence,” said OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.

Common Sense founder James P. Steyer echoed a commitment to making AI a force for good, saying: “Together, Common Sense and OpenAI will work to make sure that AI has a positive impact on all teens and families.”

Steyer went on to highlight the potential for their guides and recommendations to lead to responsible adoption of chatbot tools like ChatGPT, avoiding any unforeseen issues resulting from the rapid advancement of AI.

The partnership comes on the heels of ChatGPT’s meteoric rise since its November 2022 launch. With Common Sense bringing child development expertise to the table, the groups aim to preemptively shape an AI future that protects and empowers kids.

(Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash)

See also: OpenAI releases new models and lowers API pricing

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with Digital Transformation Week and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo.

Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here.

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Universities are increasingly recognising the importance of equipping their students and staff with AI literacy skills to leverage the opportunities presented by technological advancements in teaching and learning. 

Sheila Flavell CBE, Chief Operating Officer at FDM Group, commented: “With businesses crying out for new hires equipped with the latest tech skills and analytics capabilities, providing students with a fully rounded education and qualifications in this area is critical for building a dynamic workforce, fit for the future ahead.”

Developed in collaboration with AI and educational experts, the new principles acknowledge both the risks and opportunities associated with generative AI. The statement emphasises the role of Russell Group universities in cultivating AI leaders who can navigate an AI-enabled world effectively and responsibly.

The five principles outlined in the joint statement are as follows:

1. AI Literacy Support: Universities will support students and staff in developing AI literacy skills, enabling them to comprehend and engage with AI effectively.
2. Faculty Training: Staff members will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to assist students in utilising generative AI tools appropriately and effectively within their learning experiences.
3. Ethical Integration: Universities will adapt their teaching and assessment methods to incorporate the ethical use of generative AI, ensuring equal access to its benefits.
4. Academic Rigour: Academic integrity and rigour will be upheld as universities embrace the transformative power of AI in education.
5. Collaborative Best Practices: Universities will collaborate and share best practices as the technology and its applications in education evolve.

This announcement closely follows the UK Government’s launch of a consultation on the use of generative AI in education in England. By issuing this joint statement, the Russell Group universities aim to foster a shared understanding of the values and considerations surrounding AI in education.

Ross Sleight, Chief Strategy Officer, EMEA at CI&T, said:

“Education is still yet to be transformed by AI. It’s centuries old in how it’s done, but that doesn’t mean change isn’t on the horizon.

Exams and essays can risk regurgitation over critical thinking. Institutions must ask themselves, what is the most effective way to facilitate and consolidate knowledge, and can new technology better support this?

Technology such as ChatGPT is here to stay, and while it does pose challenges for the education sector, fighting against it is a losing battle. Institutions need to work with it and use it to their advantage. Great innovation can come from it.”

Dr Tim Bradshaw, Chief Executive of the Russell Group, highlighted the significance of AI breakthroughs in reshaping work dynamics and stressed the importance of preparing students with the skills required for successful careers. Furthermore, he emphasised the need to support university staff as they explore the potential of AI to enhance teaching methods and engage students effectively.

As the field of AI continues to advance rapidly, the joint statement of principles serves as a testament to the commitment of Russell Group universities to harnessing the transformative opportunities presented by AI.

John Kirk, Group Deputy CEO at ITG, commented: “The reality is that this technology is here to stay and deployed correctly can enhance our creative industries and help businesses transform marketing and customer interactions for the long term.

“With the digital skills shortfall still causing headaches for many companies, having systems in place to better understand such a high-impact technology is a step in the right direction.”

By prioritising the welfare of students and staff and safeguarding the integrity of education, the principles will help to ensure that AI adoption in universities is guided by clear and understood values.

Prof Michael Grove, deputy pro-vice chancellor (education policy and standards) at the University of Birmingham, said: “The rapid rise of generative AI will mean we need to continually review and re-evaluate our assessment practices, but we should view this as an opportunity rather than a threat.

You can find the full principles on the use of AI in education here (PDF)

(Photo by Suad Kamardeen on Unsplash)

See also: UK will host global AI summit to address potential risks

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The event is co-located with Digital Transformation Week.

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In a fireside chat at the ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego, Gates explained that the “AIs will get to that ability, to be as good a tutor as any human ever could.”

AI chatbots such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Bard have developed rapidly in recent months and can now compete with human-level intelligence on some standardised tests.

Teaching writing skills has traditionally been difficult for computers, as they lack the cognitive ability to replicate human thought processes, Gates said. However, AI chatbots are able to recognise and recreate human-like language.

New York Times tech columnist Kevin Roose has already used ChatGPT to improve his writing, using the AI’s ability to quickly search through online style guides. Some academics have also been impressed by chatbots’ ability to summarise and offer feedback on text or even to write full essays.

The technology must improve before it can become a viable tutor, and Gates said that AI must get better at reading and recreating human language to better motivate students.

While it may be surprising that chatbots are expected to excel at reading and writing before maths, the latter is often used to develop AI technology and chatbots have difficulties with mathematical calculations.

If a solved math equation already exists within the datasets that the chatbot is trained on, it can provide the answer. However, calculating its own solution is more complex and requires improved reasoning abilities, Gates explained.

Gates is confident that the technology will improve within the next two years and he believes that it could help make private tutoring available to a wide range of students who may not otherwise be able to afford it.

While some free versions of chatbots already exist, Gates expects that more advanced versions will be available for a fee, although he believes that they will be more affordable and accessible than one-on-one tutoring with a human instructor.

You can watch the full talk with Bill Gates below:

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The event is co-located with Digital Transformation Week.

Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here.

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