Distributional raises $19M to automate AI model and app testing
Oct 9, 2024
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Scott Clark, the founder of Distributional and former GM of AI software at Intel, discusses his company's recent $19 million Series A funding. He shares insights about the challenges of AI risk management and how his platform aims to streamline testing processes for AI models and applications. Clark highlights the need for enhanced AI auditing in enterprises and elaborates on Distributional's innovative approach to automate these critical tasks, positioning the company as a key player in the evolving AI landscape.
Distributional's founding emphasizes the urgent demand for effective AI testing solutions to navigate the complexities and risks of AI applications.
The company's automated statistical tests and collaborative dashboard aim to streamline monitoring and improve documentation, setting it apart in the AI testing market.
Deep dives
Rise of AI Testing Platforms
The founding of Distributional by Scott Clark highlights the increasing need for effective AI testing solutions as the complexity and risks associated with AI applications grow. Clark has a background from his tenure at Intel and prior experiences at Yelp, where he faced significant challenges related to AI monitoring and observability. He emphasizes that the non-deterministic nature of AI makes it difficult to pinpoint issues, as identical input can yield varying outputs. Given that over 80% of AI projects fail according to a Rand Corporation survey, the development of comprehensive testing strategies is becoming crucial for ensuring successful deployment of AI products.
Distributional's Unique Offerings
Distributional aims to simplify the AI auditing process by providing automated statistical tests tailored to developers' specifications, which can be viewed through a collaborative dashboard. This feature allows teams to monitor the testing lifecycle, triage failed tests, and adjust as necessary, ultimately improving visibility and documentation across organizations. By focusing on a 'white-glove' approach, Distributional offers extensive support in installation, implementation, and troubleshooting, distinguishing itself from other AI reliability solutions like those from Google Cloud and AWS. With significant new funding, the company plans to enhance its technical capabilities and expand its workforce, positioning itself for growth in the AI testing market.
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Streamlining AI Testing: Distributional's New Funding and Mission
Distributional, an AI testing platform founded by Intel’s former GM of AI software, Scott Clark, has closed a $19 million Series A funding round led by Two Sigma Ventures.