AI Transformation at the DOD: A Conversation with Chief Digital and AI Officer, Dr. Radha Plumb
Jul 16, 2024
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Dr. Radha Plumb, DOD Chief Digital and AI Officer, discusses Open DAGIR initiative connecting DOD end-users with software solutions. Topics include AI implementation challenges, metrics of success, Open Dagger initiative, acquisition and scalability in DOD operations, intersections of Replicator, Guide, and Autonomy initiatives, and data infrastructure investments at the DOD.
The DOD is focused on modernization and innovation through AI adoption and data-driven decision-making.
Initiatives like Open DAGIR aim to streamline procurement processes and promote a federated data architecture.
CDIO's involvement in industry day prep reflects a forward-thinking approach to data management and government collaboration.
Deep dives
AI Transformation and Adoption at the DOD
The podcast episode delves into the ongoing transformation and adoption of AI within the Department of Defense (DOD). Dr. Radha Plum, the Chief Digital and Artificial Officer, discusses the department's focus on modernization, innovation, and the integration of data-driven decision-making. Key areas highlighted include the importance of private sector innovation, federal investment in research and development, and the government's role in accelerating AI adoption through data accessibility, infrastructure enablement, and streamlined acquisition pathways.
Development and Progress of DOD's AI Strategy
The episode reflects on the development and progress of the DOD's AI strategy over the years. It mentions the establishment of the Chief Digital and Artificial Officer (CDAO) organization, highlighting initiatives like Project Maven and the integration of AI and autonomous systems. The narrative emphasizes the department's experimentation-based approach, strong technical foundations, and the three key components of the DOD's approach to AI: private sector innovation, federal investment, and government's role in accelerating adoption.
Enterprise Infrastructure and Open Dagger Initiative
The discussion shifts towards initiatives like the Open Dagger program, focusing on Open Data and Applications Government-Owned Interoperable Repositories (Open DAGR). The Open Dagger initiative aims to streamline procurement processes through three key components: enterprise data infrastructure, enterprise licenses, and a pathway for rapid acquisition and experimentation. It highlights the importance of an open, federated data architecture, agile requirements, competitive selection processes, and the transition from prototype testing to scaled production to meet the department's technological needs effectively.
CDIO's Role in Industry Day Preparation and C2 Execution
CDIO's involvement in preparing for an industry day focused on key aspects like directed subcontracting, IP rights negotiation, and government ownership balancing, indicates a strategic focus on data management and government collaboration. The 6-week sprint to enhance business processes aligns with addressing thorny issues such as intellectual property rights and subcontractor-government relationships, portraying a forward-thinking approach.
Advancements in CJAAD C2 and Experimentation Approach
The progress in CJAAD C2 involves enhancing data integration for strategic, operational, and tactical decision-making in complex combat scenarios, emphasizing faster decision-making and efficient data utilization. The experimentation-based approach, showcased in the Guide series, highlights the successful demonstration of minimum viable capabilities through strategic testing, technology integration, and real-time operator usage validation, leading to iterative advancements in military decision-making technologies.
In this episode, DOD Chief Digital and AI Officer Dr. Radha Plumb joins Greg Allen to discuss the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO)'s current role at the department and a preview of its upcoming projects. The CDAO was established in 2022 to create, implement, and steer the DOD’s digital transformation and adoption of AI. Under Dr. Plumb’s leadership, the CDAO recently announced a new initiative, Open Data and Applications Government-owned Interoperable Repositories (DAGIR), which will open a multi-vendor ecosystem connecting DOD end users with innovative software solutions. Dr. Plumb discusses the role of Open DAGIR and a series of other transformative projects currently underway at the CDAO.
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