At September’s Innovation Day, we welcomed Dr. Viktor Dörfler, Senior Lecturer in Information & Knowledge Management at University of Strathclyde Business School. He shared his professional insights on what Artificial Intelligence (AI) is and how it can be used in our favour.
Can Artificial Intelligence replace the human mind? What is the difference between thinking and calculating? How, if ever, can we embrace technology as a friend? For over 50 years, we have been integrating AI into our lives, automating certain aspects of our life in search of simplicity. However, these trends have raised concerns around the future of the human mind in a world where machine learning is thriving.
A computer has the power to compute 10 trillion digits of π in an instant. A human would not be able to do it in a lifetime. And yet, computers can accomplish only a little bit of what the human mind can. The key lies in the difference between complex and complicated. Complicated tasks entail multiple logical linear rules, which can be resolved with systems and recipes but reduce the ‘space’ for human input and creativity. Complex tasks, on the other hand, entail non-linear and tricky rules, with many unknowns and interrelated factors.
So, where do we go from here?
Redefine your types of problems. Implement AI as much as possible to tame problems that will improve administrative processes and automatable tasks as well as your own team’s skills to handle the complex and wicked. If we improve the skills that make us human, such as being creative and social, while understanding smart technology and learning how to interact with it, AI will never take over decision-making. Having vision and agility and understanding common sense will ensure digital leaders can thrive in a Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous (VUCA) world.
Embrace digital culture and use the strengths of AI. To really understand what AI is, you don’t need to know how it works in its biggest and most elaborate form. Rather, it is key to understand the small ways in which AI can be used, so that it can be implemented and unlock potential in specific areas of the business. To do this, you can:
- Demonstrate real examples of the potential of AI and look for early adopters of AI projects to demonstrate success;
- Ensure that staff are prepared for any AI rollout and communicate changes effectively – so they don’t fear change or that they will lose their jobs;
- Identify what humans can do better than AI, and the other way around: use the strengths of AI to the maximum beneficial effect where appropriate.
Harness creativity and data in tandem. Creativity and analytics are often seen as adversaries. And yet, they should be treated as equal partners: in many companies, creative functions are becoming more data-driven and data-driven functions are growing more creative. From brand strategy and consumer insights, to customer experience and creative development, combining the power of the human mindset and skills with the insights from data analytics can maximise the potential of your business. Companies that integrate creativity, intuition and data can innovate more effectively and unlock the next wave of growth.
These are just some key highlights taken from September’s Innovation Day. Each month, clients of the Innovation Programmes receive a full ACT report, capturing the guest expert’s research, the implications and next steps for leaders to apply back in their team and organisation.
Sources: Dörfler, V. (2019) ‘Enhance the Human Mind with Smart Technology’, KnowledgeBrief Innovation Day Presentation, 11 September.