Radio Davos

Beyond the hype, how industries are deploying AI at the heart of their operations

Apr 3, 2025

Andrew Ng, managing general partner of AI Fund and founder of DeepLearning.AI, is joined by Cedrik Neike, CEO of Digital Industries at Siemens, and Kiva Allgood from the World Economic Forum. They delve into how AI is transitioning from experimental phases to core operational functionalities across industries. Key discussions include leveraging AI for enhanced manufacturing efficiency, the necessity of workforce upskilling, and addressing misconceptions surrounding AI. The importance of practical applications over hype is emphasized, alongside sustainable practices powered by AI.

38:43

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Episode guests

Kiva Allgood

Cedrik Neike

Andrew Ng

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Companies are integrating AI into core operations, moving beyond experimentation to drive significant growth and transformation.

AI is becoming essential for optimizing productivity and enhancing decision-making, leading to substantial economic contributions and competitive advantages.

Deep dives

The Shift from Experimentation to Implementation

Businesses are transitioning from experimenting with artificial intelligence to implementing it at scale, marking a significant evolution in AI deployment across industries. The insights reflect that companies are not merely running small pilot programs but are integrating AI into their core operations to drive growth and transformation. Reports suggest that leading companies in AI adoption could see revenue gains of 15% over their peers, a figure expected to increase significantly in the coming years. This trend demonstrates that AI is no longer just a tool for efficiency but a central element in strategic business development.

Intro

2min

AI Transformations Across Industries

11min

Unlocking AI's Cost-Effective Innovation and Skill Requirements

3min

Harnessing AI: The Importance of Technical Knowledge and Language Proficiency

2min

Navigating AI Misconceptions and Focusing on Practical Applications

2min

AI Revolution in Manufacturing

7min

Advancements in Intelligent Manufacturing and Sustainability

2min

AI's Transformative Role in Industry and Sustainability

12min

There was the hype, then the testing, now companies are deploying artificial intelligence at the heart of their operations. We ask one of the world's most prominent AI scientists for his advice for companies, and hear how Siemens is creating the 'brains' to run the factories of the future.

Guests: Andrew Ng, managing general partner of AI FUNDS and founder of DeepLearning.AI Cedrik Neike, CEO Digital Industries, Siemens

Cathy Li, Head, AI, Data and Metaverse, World Economic Forum

Kiva Allgood, Head, Centre for Advanced Manufacturing & Supply Chains, World Economic Forum

Links:

AI in Action: Beyond Experimentation to Transform Industry: https://reports.weforum.org/docs/WEF_AI_in_Action_Beyond_Experimentation_to_Transform_Industry_2025.pdf

Frontier Technologies in Industrial Operations: The Rise of Artificial Intelligence Agents: https://reports.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Frontier_Technologies_in_Industrial_Operations_2025.pdf

Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution: https://centres.weforum.org/centre-for-the-fourth-industrial-revolution/home

Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains: https://centres.weforum.org/centre-for-advanced-manufacturing-and-supply-chains/home

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