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News

AI Person of the Year: Meet the 2023 AI Awards Finalists

As AI’s influence continues to expand, the role of leadership in AI has become increasingly vital. In this article, we will explore the significance of leadership in AI, focusing on how it shapes innovation, ensures ethical development and addresses the challenges posed by this revolutionary technology. We will also take a closer look at this year’s finalists in the AI Person of the Year at the 2023 AI Awards.

Steering Innovation

AI is in a constant state of evolution, with new breakthroughs and applications emerging at an unprecedented pace. Effective leadership plays a crucial role in steering this innovation. Here’s how:

Vision and Strategy: Leaders in AI must provide a clear vision and strategy for their organisations. They set the direction, define goals and align the efforts of their teams to ensure that AI initiatives are purposeful and impactful.

Investment and Resource Allocation: Decisions regarding investments in AI research, development and talent are paramount. Leaders make informed choices to allocate resources effectively, ensuring that their organisations stay at the forefront of AI innovation.

Risk Management: Innovation often entails taking risks. Leaders must strike a balance between pushing boundaries and managing risks effectively. They guide their teams in making informed decisions, leading to responsible AI innovation.

Ensuring Ethical Development

AI, like any powerful tool, carries ethical responsibilities. Leaders must establish the ethical framework for AI development and usage. This involves:

Ethical Guidelines: Leaders set clear ethical guidelines, which include principles like fairness, transparency, accountability and privacy. These guidelines serve as a compass for their organisation’s AI efforts.

Diverse Teams: A diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to develop AI solutions that are fair and unbiased. Leaders foster a culture of diversity and inclusion, as varied perspectives reduce the risk of bias.

Compliance and Regulation: As the AI landscape is subject to increasing regulation, leaders must ensure their organisations adhere to legal and ethical standards. They work closely with regulatory bodies to navigate the complex regulatory environment.

Addressing Challenges

AI presents a myriad of challenges, from ethical dilemmas to technical complexities. Leadership in AI plays a critical role in addressing these challenges:

Data Privacy and Security: Protecting data and ensuring privacy are fundamental concerns. Leaders implement robust data privacy and security measures to safeguard sensitive information.

Bias and Fairness: Biases in AI systems can perpetuate discrimination. Leaders drive efforts to identify and eliminate biases within AI algorithms to ensure fairness and equity.

Public Perception: The public’s perception of AI can significantly impact its adoption. Leaders communicate the benefits and risks of AI transparently and promote public trust.

Meet the 2023 AI Awards Finalists

AI Person of the Year

Ciaran Gilligan-Lee

Head of Spotify’s Causal Inference Lab in Dublin, Ciaran’s primary focus is on advancing causal ML techniques to understand cause and effect in data, enabling more informed decision-making.

Conrad Bernath

Head of Speech and Machine Learning at T-Pro, Conrad’s significant contributions to AI solutions in healthcare documentation include leveraging his data science background to streamline processes and improve patient outcomes.

Luca Longo

For his innovative research in XAI, focusing on making AI models more interpretable and transparent which has the potential to impact human-AI interaction, responsible AI development, human capacity, international engagement and the economy.

Maria Aretoulaki

Head of Conversational and Generative AI Design at GlobalLogic UK&Ireland, Maria’s hybrid approach, combining linguistics with computer science, has led to innovative solutions in text summarization and conversational AI.

The importance of leadership in AI cannot be overstated. Effective leaders in AI guide innovation, ensuring that it aligns with the organisation’s mission and is ethically responsible. They address the challenges and complexities of AI, promoting trust and fostering a culture of responsible AI development. 

As AI continues to shape our world, it is the leadership that will ultimately determine whether it becomes a force for good or a source of concern. In the realm of AI, leadership is the compass that points the way toward a brighter, more ethical and more innovative future.

Book an AI Presentation today

AI Ireland offers tailored presentations catering to your industry’s needs, providing invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies. Stay ahead of the curve and equip your organisation with the knowledge it needs to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enlighten your team and stakeholders. Book a presentation today and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry.

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

AI Ireland are excited to unveil our new book, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” which is now accessible for purchase on Amazon. For executives, policy architects, or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Now available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Limited tickets remain for the 2023 AI Awards.

The fifth annual AI Awards takes place on Tuesday November 21st at the Gibson Hotel. This is an exciting opportunity to connect and network with over 200 AI and Data professionals across the island of Ireland and hear from some of the most exciting AI applications across industry and academia spanning 12 award categories.

Don’t miss the opportunity to get your tickets now! Sale ends November 17th but limited tickets remain so head over to aiawards.ie/tickets or Eventbrite to book your seat today!

Categories
News

Best Use of AI in a Consumer/Customer Service Application: Meet the 2023 Finalists

One sector that has experienced significant benefits from AI integration is customer services. AI has revolutionised the way companies interact with their customers, providing a more personalised and efficient experience. 

This article delves into the ways AI is reshaping customer services, from chatbots and virtual assistants to data analytics and predictive support. We will also take a closer look at the finalists in the Best Use of AI in a Consumer/Customer Service application for the 2023 AI Awards.

Chatbots and Virtual Assistants

Chatbots and virtual assistants are perhaps the most recognisable AI applications in customer services. They have made significant strides in enhancing customer interactions. These AI-powered entities can handle routine queries, provide information, and even execute simple tasks, such as booking appointments or tracking orders.

Benefits:

  • 24/7 availability: Chatbots and virtual assistants are always online, providing customers with support round the clock, enhancing the accessibility of services.
  • Scalability: They can handle an unlimited number of customer inquiries simultaneously, ensuring that no customer is left waiting in long queues.
  • Cost efficiency: AI-driven virtual assistants reduce operational costs by automating repetitive tasks, allowing human agents to focus on more complex issues.
Personalisation

AI has revolutionised the way companies understand and serve their customers. AI algorithms can analyse vast amounts of customer data to provide tailored recommendations, personalised marketing campaigns and individualised customer experiences. By analysing browsing history, purchase behaviour and demographic information, businesses can create a unique and engaging experience for each customer.

Benefits:

  • Improved customer satisfaction: Personalisation results in customers feeling understood and valued, leading to increased loyalty and satisfaction.
  • Increased sales and revenue: Tailored product recommendations can lead to higher conversion rates and larger order values.
  • Reduced churn: Customers are more likely to stay with a brand that offers personalised experiences, reducing customer attrition rates.
Data Analytics

AI enables businesses to harness the power of data analytics to better understand their customers and make informed decisions. It can analyse customer data to identify trends, preferences and pain points, helping organisations tailor their services to meet customer needs more effectively.

Benefits:

  • Real-time insights: AI can provide businesses with up-to-the-minute insights, allowing for immediate adjustments to strategies.
  • Predictive analytics: AI can forecast future customer behaviour, helping companies prepare for changing customer demands.
  • Enhanced customer journey mapping: AI-driven analytics can create detailed customer journey maps, identifying opportunities for improvement and optimisation.
Predictive Support

AI can predict customer issues before they arise, allowing companies to provide proactive support. By monitoring customer behaviour and patterns, AI can detect signals of potential problems and alert customer service teams.

Benefits:

  • Improved customer satisfaction: Anticipating and resolving issues before they escalate enhances the overall customer experience.
  • Reduced support costs: Proactive support can prevent costly customer complaints and service interruptions.
  • Increased brand reputation: Customers appreciate companies that are proactive and responsive, leading to a positive brand image.
Natural Language Processing

Natural language processing tools can break down language barriers, enabling companies to serve customers from different parts of the world. Language translation, sentiment analysis and chat translation features help in ensuring smooth communication and support for a diverse customer base.

Benefits:

  • Global reach: Natural language processing tools make it easier for businesses to engage with customers in their preferred languages.
  • Enhanced understanding: Sentiment analysis helps companies gauge customer emotions and act accordingly, leading to better customer service.
  • Streamlined communication: Language translation tools facilitate efficient cross-border communication.

Meet the 2023 AI Awards Finalists

Best Use of AI in a Consumer/Customer Service Application

GlobalLogic

For their Generative AI-Based Knowledge Operator – powered by Natural Language Processing and content generation – which enhances user access to information, fosters collaboration and adapts to user queries.

Lip

For addressing the challenge of language barriers in content creation by using AI to generate lip movements that make it appear as if you can speak another language. It aims to help creators reach broader language markets quickly.

Tax World

For Ezylia, which addresses the complex issue of obtaining clear tax information with a personal AI assistant. They employ OpenAI’s ChatGPT, regex and Python to efficiently answer tax questions, simplify tax topics and reduce research time for professionals.

Webio

For leveraging data analysis and custom language models to enhance customer engagement and agent efficiency. They achieved a 10% boost in collections performance and expanded client relationships while prioritising ethical AI and data control.

AI is revolutionising customer service, enhancing customer interactions and improving customer satisfaction. From chatbots and virtual assistants to personalised marketing and predictive support, AI empowers companies to provide a better and more efficient service.

As technology continues to advance, AI’s role in customer services will only become more integral, making customer experiences more seamless and enjoyable. Embracing AI is no longer an option but a necessity for companies striving to stay competitive and meet the ever-evolving expectations of today’s consumers.

Book an AI Presentation today

AI Ireland offers tailored presentations catering to your industry’s needs, providing invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies. Stay ahead of the curve and equip your organisation with the knowledge it needs to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enlighten your team and stakeholders. Book a presentation today and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry.

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

AI Ireland are excited to unveil our new book, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” which is now accessible for purchase on Amazon. For executives, policy architects, or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Now available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Limited tickets remain for the 2023 AI Awards.

The fifth annual AI Awards takes place on Tuesday November 21st at the Gibson Hotel. This is an exciting opportunity to connect and network with over 200 AI and Data professionals across the island of Ireland and hear from some of the most exciting AI applications across industry and academia spanning 12 award categories.

Don’t miss the opportunity to get your tickets now! Sale ends November 17th but limited tickets remain so head over to aiawards.ie/tickets or Eventbrite to book your seat today!

Categories
Education

E116 Gina Neff, Executive Director at Minderoo Centre for Technology & Democracy

Welcome to episode E116 of the AI Ireland podcast, the show that explores the applications and research of Data Science, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence on the island of Ireland.

Categories
News

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI revolution as a business executive

Master The AI Revolution: A Comprehensive Guide For Business Executives

“AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution as a Business Executive” is not just a book—it’s an essential guide for mastering the intricacies and seizing the opportunities of Artificial Intelligence and Generative AI. Built on rigorous research and enriched by the author’s interviews with over 450 leaders in the AI field, this seminal work serves as a comprehensive roadmap for executives aiming to navigate their organisations through the AI revolution.


This guide does more than simplify obscure AI jargon; it dispels myths and illuminates the transformative potential of Explainable AI (XAI). Offering a unique blend of theoretical acumen and actionable advice, the book highlights AI’s pivotal role across a range of industries. It features real-world case studies from diverse sectors, providing a practical toolkit for executives from which to draw inspiration and strategies.
 
What sets this book apart is its special emphasis on Generative AI, a groundbreaking technology that is redefining business operations, customer experiences, and the future of innovation.

Supported by authorities in the field, “AI Unleashed” is more than just enlightening—it’s an indispensable guide for any executive focused on making well-informed, ethical, and impactful choices in the fast-changing world of AI. Equip yourself with the expertise and resources needed to not merely adapt, but to thrive, in the AI age.

Author has been featured in

Some chapters of the book

Available to Purchase Now

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Best Application of AI in a Student Project: Meet the 2023 Finalists

From self-driving cars to virtual assistants, Artificial Intelligence is shaping our daily lives in ways we couldn’t have imagined just a few decades ago. This remarkable technological evolution has led to a surge of interest in studying AI at the university level. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons behind the growing interest in AI education and the myriad of opportunities it offers to students. We will also take a look at this year’s talented individuals who have been selected in the Best Application of AI in a Student Project for the 2023 AI Awards.

High Demand for AI Professionals

The explosive growth of AI technologies has created a high demand for AI professionals. Companies are actively seeking AI specialists to develop algorithms, build machine learning models and apply AI in diverse fields. As a result, students who specialise in AI can expect a robust job market with numerous career prospects. This high demand is a significant factor driving interest in AI education.

Interdisciplinary Nature

AI is inherently interdisciplinary, drawing from fields such as computer science, mathematics, neuroscience and engineering. This interdisciplinary approach appeals to students with a wide range of interests. Whether you are passionate about mathematics, psychology or software development, AI offers a space where multiple disciplines converge. This broad appeal makes AI a suitable choice for students with varied backgrounds and academic interests.

Ethical and Societal Concerns

The rapid advancement of AI has raised ethical and societal concerns that need to be addressed. Students studying AI at the university level are not only gaining technical expertise, but also exploring the ethical implications of AI. They are poised to become the architects of AI systems that prioritise fairness, transparency and social responsibility, making a positive impact on society.

Diverse Career Opportunities

AI is not limited to one industry or application. Graduates with AI knowledge can find exciting career opportunities in fields such as healthcare (diagnosis and drug discovery), finance (algorithmic trading and risk assessment), marketing (personalised recommendations and customer analysis) and much more. This diversity in career prospects provides students with the flexibility to pursue their interests and adapt to evolving job markets.

Research and Innovation

The field of AI is continuously evolving, with new breakthroughs and discoveries occurring regularly. This dynamic environment encourages students to engage in research and innovation. University programs often provide students with opportunities to work on cutting-edge AI projects, contributing to the advancement of AI technology itself.

Meet the 2023 AI Awards Finalists

Best Application of AI in a Student Project

Balaji Padmanathan, University College Dublin

For his project focusing on optimising electric vehicle charging station locations in Dublin, with the aim of making Dublin more sustainable and serving as a model for global efforts to combat climate change and promote responsible urban development.

Chenyang Lyu, Dublin City University

For his research in addressing limitations in Large Language Models (LLMs) for Question Answering, focusing on integrating semantic and multimodal knowledge utilising his skills in NLP, unsupervised learning, multi-modal AI and mitigating bias in AI models.

Jamie de Paor, Munster Technological University

For his research project addressing the challenge of providing training data for indoor robotics by creating a Unity-based semantic segmentation simulator. The project aims to advance indoor autonomous robotics, potentially impacting various industries.

Lan Wei, University College Dublin

For Epi-AI, an AI-powered tool for automated seizure detection in mouse EEG data, enhancing efficiency and objectivity in epilepsy research. It accelerates drug development and fosters global collaboration, promising advancements in treatment.

The growing interest in studying AI at the university level is a testament to the profound impact that AI is having on our world. Students recognise the transformative potential of AI and are eager to be a part of this revolution.

With high demand for AI professionals, diverse career opportunities and the chance to engage in groundbreaking research, studying AI at university is a choice that promises a bright and intellectually stimulating future. 

As AI continues to shape our world, it’s no surprise that more and more students are choosing to embark on this exciting educational journey.

Book an AI Presentation today

AI Ireland offers tailored presentations catering to your industry’s needs, providing invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies. Stay ahead of the curve and equip your organisation with the knowledge it needs to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enlighten your team and stakeholders. Book a presentation today and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry.

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

AI Ireland are excited to unveil our new book, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” which is now accessible for purchase on Amazon. For executives, policy architects, or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Now available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Get your Tickets Now for the 2023 AI Awards.

The fifth annual AI Awards takes place on Tuesday November 21st at the Gibson Hotel. This is an exciting opportunity to connect and network with over 200 AI and Data professionals across the island of Ireland and hear from some of the most exciting AI applications across industry and academia spanning 12 award categories.

Don’t miss the opportunity to get your discounted Early Bird tickets now! Offer ends October 31st so head over to aiawards.ie/tickets or Eventbrite and enter the discount code EarlyBird_AIA to get your ticket for just €99. Limited tickets available; Original Price €239. 

Categories
News

Best Application of AI in a Startup: Meet the 2023 Finalists

In an era characterised by technological advancements, Artificial Intelligence startups have emerged as the torchbearers of innovation. These companies are at the forefront of creating cutting-edge solutions that leverage the power of AI to transform industries and reshape the way we live and work.

In this blog post, we delve into the world of AI startups, exploring their impact, challenges and the promise they hold for the future. We will also introduce this year’s finalists in the Best Application of AI in a Startup for the 2023 AI Awards.

The Impact of AI Startups

Industry Disruption: AI startups have the potential to disrupt traditional industries by introducing automation, predictive analytics and data-driven decision-making. Sectors like healthcare, finance, retail and transportation to name just a few have seen significant changes due to AI innovations.

Enhanced Efficiency: AI startups are helping organisations boost their operational efficiency. For example, chatbots have become integral to customer support, while AI-driven algorithms optimise supply chains and improve production processes.

Personalisation: AI startups enable hyper-personalisation by using algorithms to tailor products and services to individual preferences. This has transformed eCommerce, marketing and entertainment by enhancing the  customer experience.

Challenges Faced by AI Startups

Data Privacy and Ethics: AI startups need to address concerns about data privacy and ethical AI usage. Ensuring compliance with data protection laws and industry standards is crucial. Striking the right balance between innovation and responsible AI deployment is a significant challenge. 

Talent Shortage: The demand for AI talent often outpaces the supply, making it difficult for startups to attract and retain skilled professionals in this highly competitive field.

Funding: Securing adequate funding for AI startups is essential for research, development and scaling. Convincing investors to back early-stage AI companies can be a formidable task.

Meet the 2023 AI Awards Finalists

Best Application of AI in a Startup

Data Science Wizards

For UnifyAI, which solves complex AI development challenges for enterprises, offering an integrated, automated and open-source platform. It accelerates AI adoption and reduces costs, with a solid commitment to security and societal impact.

Galvia AI

For addressing the University of Galway’s pandemic-induced challenges with an AI-driven student engagement platform named Cara. It helped reduce staff workload by 40%, saving 1500+ hours and instantly resolved 84% of student queries.

Socialvoice.ai

For developing an AI solution to analyse video content, focusing on spoken words, sentiments and more. Their innovation fills the gap in video analysis, aiding marketers and brands to understand their market, competitors and influencers better.

Whyze Health

For their work in aiming to solve the problem of fragmented and inaccessible health data using AI. Their platform transforms health records into digital assets, benefiting patients, healthcare providers and pharma/medtech companies.

The Promise of AI Startups

Problem Solvers: AI startups are uniquely positioned to address some of the most pressing global challenges, from climate change to healthcare disparities, using data-driven AI solutions.

Economic Growth: The success of AI startups can lead to economic growth by creating jobs, stimulating investment, and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Future Transformation: AI startups are instrumental in shaping the future. They are working on projects that can redefine how we live, work and interact with technology, setting the stage for a more connected and efficient world.

 

In conclusion, AI startups are pivotal in shaping the future of innovation and transforming our society. While they face challenges like data privacy, talent shortage and regulatory hurdles, the promise they hold is immense. 

By addressing real-world problems, fostering innovation and driving economic growth, AI startups are pioneers in the journey towards a more AI-enabled world. As these startups continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, the future looks promising, exciting and full of opportunities for those willing to embrace the AI revolution.

Book an AI Presentation today

AI Ireland offers tailored presentations catering to your industry’s needs, providing invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies. Stay ahead of the curve and equip your organisation with the knowledge it needs to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enlighten your team and stakeholders. Book a presentation today and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry.

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

AI Ireland are excited to unveil our new book, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” which is now accessible for purchase on Amazon. For executives, policy architects, or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Now available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Get your Tickets Now for the 2023 AI Awards.

The fifth annual AI Awards takes place on Tuesday November 21st at the Gibson Hotel. This is an exciting opportunity to connect and network with over 200 AI and Data professionals across the island of Ireland and hear from some of the most exciting AI applications across industry and academia spanning 12 award categories.

Don’t miss the opportunity to get your discounted Early Bird tickets now! Offer ends October 31st so head over to aiawards.ie/tickets or Eventbrite and enter the discount code EarlyBird_AIA to get your ticket for just €99. Limited tickets available; Original Price €239.