Tech Talks Daily

In this groundbreaking episode of Tech Talks Daily, we're joined by Anders Beck, Vice President of Strategy and Innovation at Universal Robots, to explore the transformative role of AI in industrial automation. As we stand at the cusp of a new era in manufacturing, Beck guides us through how AI is revolutionizing factories and redefining the future of automation. We start by addressing a common misconception: while generative AI may be in its nascent stages, AI technology is already leaving a significant mark on the manufacturing industry. Beck shares insights into how AI, mainly through advancements in computer vision and perception technologies, enables robots to interact with the physical world in previously thought impossible ways. He highlights Apera AI's '4D Vision' technology, which grants robots humanlike perception, allowing them to understand and manipulate objects in disordered environments – a critical breakthrough in automation. Furthermore, Beck discusses how AI empowers robots to handle a variety of objects without the need for prior teaching or programming. This flexibility is crucial in modern manufacturing environments, where adapting to different shapes and sizes of objects can dramatically increase efficiency and reduce downtime. Precision in manufacturing is another focal point. Beck delves into how AI, as demonstrated by Inbolt's AI-based Inbrain technology, processes vast amounts of 3D data at high frequencies. This capability enables robots to perform tasks with incredible accuracy, such as the intricate assembly of gears, by adapting their trajectory in real-time based on the position and orientation of workpieces. Looking towards the future, Beck shares his vision of the 'future factory,' heavily reliant on AI and robotics. This evolution promises performance improvements, cost savings, and a significant shift in the roles of human workers, who can focus on more creative and less repetitive tasks. Throughout the episode, we will also cover the biggest challenges facing the integration of AI in manufacturing, from finding the right implementation strategies to training and understanding the iterative nature of AI development. Beck provides valuable advice for manufacturers looking to embrace AI, encouraging them to be bold and open-minded in piloting these technologies in natural production settings. This conversation with Anders Beck is not just about the present state of AI in industrial automation but also a look into the future – where AI and robotics are not just tools but integral parts of a brighter, more efficient, and innovative manufacturing landscape.

In today's episode of Tech Talks Daily, we delve into AI's intricacies in data analytics and business intelligence with James Fisher, Chief Strategy Officer at Qlik. Qlik, a leader in the field, has recently unveiled its ambitious AI strategy, marking a significant commitment to advancing AI applications in data handling. This move is especially noteworthy following Qlik's acquisition of Talend, strengthening its capabilities in managing data quality, governance, and lineage in the cloud. Fisher offers a comprehensive insight into why data stands at the core of any AI development. He emphasizes the importance of generating trustworthy and actionable data outputs for enhanced decision-making processes. This topic aligns seamlessly with Qlik's long-standing integration of AI into its data analytics products and its recent focus on GenAI, which is crucial for understanding and improving data quality, especially for large language models (LLMs). We'll explore how Qlik, in collaboration with partners like Snowflake and Databricks, is pioneering the delivery of LLMs in the cloud. Fisher will share success stories from early adopters such as Harman and ChatGPT, illustrating these technologies' practical applications and benefits in business environments. Throughout the conversation, Fisher will shed light on the role of AI and GenAI in transforming data analytics and business intelligence. He'll discuss the challenges and opportunities in creating a data infrastructure supporting enterprise-scale generative AI. This includes a deep dive into the necessity of data quality and governance for the success of generative AI and how Qlik's holistic approach is shaping the future of AI in the workplace. Listeners will gain insights into how AI democratizes data beyond expert circles, lowers barriers to insight generation, and evolves workplace roles. We'll also explore Qlik's cloud partnerships, emphasizing how hybrid cloud access and scalability are vital for training domain-specific models.

I welcome Asa Whillock, the Vice President and General Manager of Machine Learning at Alteryx, to delve into the transformative world of generative AI and its real-world impact on businesses. Asa, an acclaimed AI and machine learning expert, brings to light the critical gap between the anticipated benefits of generative AI and its practical implications in the business environment. Our discussion pivots around a compelling revelation: that the success of AI in businesses is not merely about its implementation but hinges on individuals' ability to utilize and trust AI technologies. Asa argues that without a profound understanding and confidence in how AI operates, businesses are unlikely to reap the expected benefits. This issue is underscored by Alteryx's recent AI Pulse survey, which reveals a surprising statistic: although 40% of businesses have adopted AI, a majority still rank their AI maturity at the preliminary stages of exploration or experimentation. Throughout our conversation, Asa shares insights on the current state of AI in businesses, highlighting the trend of AI adoption driven more by a Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) rather than strategic business intelligence. We examine the intriguing findings from Alteryx's research, noting that only 18% of businesses classify their AI maturity as 'optimizing' or 'innovating'. This episode is a treasure trove for those interested in the intersection of AI and business efficiency. We discuss how organizations can effectively implement and govern AI, ensuring that it aligns with their business strategies and ethical standards. Key topics include the challenges of AI adoption, the misconceptions surrounding AI's impact on employment, and the importance of regulatory compliance and ethical governance in building trust in AI systems. Asa also sheds light on the future trends in AI for 2024, emphasizing a shift from hype to practical value and ROI of AI investments. We explore how breaking down data silos can enable more insightful cross-functional analysis, potentially revolutionizing decision-making in businesses. Join me in this compelling dialogue with Asa Whillock as we unravel the complexities of AI in the business world, offering insights that are both thought-provoking and actionable. 

In this Tech Talks Daily Podcast episode, we are privileged to host Milena Berry, Co-Founder and CEO of PowerToFly, the groundbreaking platform at the forefront of accelerating economic equity by upskilling and connecting underrepresented talent with significant roles in visible sectors. Our discussion delves into Milena's visionary mission, striving to partner with the top 100 brands to offer a range of diversity solutions through PowerToFly. We explore the human element of success, seeking insights into the influential figures who have shaped Milena's journey. A focal point of our conversation is PowerToFly's innovative feature within their PowerPro product, 'Candidate Search.' This transformative tool redefines talent acquisition, enabling companies to identify and recruit candidates from underrepresented backgrounds with unprecedented inclusivity and efficiency. We discuss how this tool uses Enhanced Search to identify candidates based on diversity parameters like gender and ethnicity, revolutionizing the hiring landscape. We confront sobering statistics, such as the disproportionate job losses among DEIB workers in 2021 and the persistent issue of racial discrimination in the tech industry. PowerToFly's response, through their Diversity Filters and beyond, offers a comprehensive suite of solutions addressing these challenges. Our discussion with Milena also ventures into strategies for implementing effective and enduring DEIB policies, encompassing leadership accountability, regular training, and integrating DEIB into every hiring phase. We examine how these strategies can weave DEIB into a company's DNA, fostering ethical practices and business success.

Today's episode of the Tech Talks Daily Podcast brings a thought-provoking conversation with Andy Whitehurst, UK Chief Technology Officer, and Kevin Macnish, Digital Ethics Consulting Manager, from Sopra Steria. Sopra Steria, a powerhouse in Europe's tech sector, employs 55,000 across nearly 30 countries, known for its advanced consulting, digital services, and software development. In 2022, the group generated a substantial revenue of €5.1 billion, indicating its influential role in global technology and digital transformation. Our conversation today delves into the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence (AI), which is pivotal in its evolution. With the European Union recently passing groundbreaking legislation to regulate AI development, the topic of ethical AI is more relevant than ever. AI's potential to profoundly transform society is undeniable, yet it carries inherent risks, including data misuse and ingrained gender bias. These challenges underscore the urgency of guiding AI development along an ethical path. Andy and Kevin bring their extensive expertise to the table, discussing the intricate balance of harnessing AI's transformative power while mitigating its potential pitfalls. They emphasize the importance of considering and addressing the consequences of unethical AI use and development promptly. The discussion extends to the necessity of fostering public dialogue about ethical AI at both governmental and industry levels, reflecting a collective responsibility towards this emerging technology. The episode also highlights the 'ethics by design' approach as a cornerstone for responsible AI development. This methodology isn't just about embedding ethical considerations into the fabric of organizational structures; it's about integrating these principles throughout the AI development process. By asking the right technical questions and prioritizing ethical considerations from the outset, we can ensure that AI serves the greater good of society. Join us in this episode as Andy Whitehurst and Kevin Macnish navigate the complex yet fascinating landscape of ethical AI, offering insights on how we can collectively shape a future where technology not only advances but also aligns with our core values for a positive and equitable world.

Joining me today is Peter Dyson, Head of Analytics at Kovrr, a company at the forefront of cyber risk modeling. With over 15 years of experience in risk and financial modeling in the insurance industry, Peter brings a unique perspective on how cyber risks reshape business strategies at the highest levels. Our conversation orbits around Kovrr's recently released Fortune 1000 report, a critical piece of research that provides crucial cyber risk benchmarks aiding companies in identifying and managing material risks. This report gains even more relevance after the new cybersecurity rules issued by the SEC, which mandate greater transparency and risk communication, effectively making cybersecurity a top concern in the boardroom.   Peter, with his rich background that includes a PhD in engineering, will shed light on the complex intersection of technology, analytics, and business. We explore how cybersecurity is no longer confined to IT departments but has become a pivotal financial discussion, demanding attention from CFOs and CEOs alike. We also dive into the practical applications of Cyber Risk Quantification (CRQ), a solution provided by Kovrr. Peter elucidates how CRQ helps businesses articulate technical cyber risks in financial terms, allowing for more informed decision-making at the highest levels. This becomes particularly essential as companies grapple with understanding the economic impact of potential cyber incidents. One of the key takeaways from our discussion is the realization of how different industries face varying cyber risk profiles and how larger companies might have better economies of scale in terms of cyber defenses. This information is crucial for business leaders looking to benchmark their risk profiles and understand their standing in an increasingly interconnected and digital business world. Finally, as we gear up for 2024, Peter shares his insights on the importance of continuous learning in cybersecurity and offers a crucial tip for businesses planning for the upcoming year. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding how cybersecurity transforms business discussions at the highest levels and the role of advanced technologies like CRQ in navigating these challenges.

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Wade Bruffey and Zoltan Sarda, the dynamic co-founders of GoMobi.work. This discussion ventures beyond the conventional boundaries of workplace management, delving into the essence of effective performance management and the subtle yet powerful forces that shape company culture. Wade Bruffey, with his rich background in scaling purpose-driven businesses and driving significant growth as a business & life coach, shares his insights on the transformative impact of aligned leadership and strategies in organizations. He reveals the secrets behind the staggering 300% revenue growth he fostered in a high-growth startup, highlighting the synergy between leadership, strategy, and purpose. Zoltan Sarda, an internationally acclaimed coach and program developer, brings over three decades of experience. His expertise in developing mentorship and coaching systems within growing organizations offers a unique perspective on fostering mission-aligned effectiveness. Zoltan's doctoral research, which delves into interpersonal dynamics and their influence on workplace behavior, is a cornerstone of his approach to cultivating a workplace of well-being. Together, they dissect what most organizations misunderstand about performance management and unravel the concept of "micro-moments" instrumental in shaping a company's culture. The episode also explores the pivotal role of clarity, alignment, and guiding principles in crafting a conducive work environment. Furthermore, our guests elucidate leveraging data to inform and enhance effective coaching methodologies. They share their vision for the "workplace of well-being," a revolutionary concept that promises to redefine the landscape of modern work environments.

In the latest episode of the Tech Talks Daily Podcast, I had the opportunity to engage in a fascinating discussion with Clare Hickie, CTO for EMEA at Workday. Clare, with her extensive cloud technology experience and pivotal role in a company that serves over 10,000 customers, offers a unique perspective on the rapidly evolving world of AI and machine learning in the business sector. Our conversation was particularly timely, coinciding with the release of a new Workday report. This report provides an in-depth look at the current state of AI investment and preparedness in the UK, offering valuable comparisons with global and European standards. Given Workday's significant involvement with 40% of the FTSE 100, Clare's insights are not just theoretical musings but are grounded in substantial real-world experience and data. One of the most striking aspects of our discussion was the optimism surrounding AI and machine learning. Clare highlighted that a significant majority of business leaders, about 73%, believe these technologies will profoundly impact the global business landscape in the next three years.  Furthermore, 58% think these advancements will significantly amplify human potential.  However, this optimism is tempered by a concerning revelation from the report: preparation levels need to keep pace with investment ambitions. While nearly half of the respondents indicated that over 20% of their organization's annual technology budget is invested in AI and ML, only 13% of UK organizations feel entirely prepared to adopt these technologies. Clare and I also explored the issue of trust in AI, a critical factor in its adoption and integration into business processes. The report indicates that trust in AI is relatively low, with 46% of business leaders expressing concerns about the trustworthiness of AI and ML. This is a crucial area that needs addressing if AI is to realize its full potential in the business world. During our conversation, Clare shared her insights on how AI and ML are expected to transform essential business functions. She emphasized the strategic role of AI in augmenting human capabilities, particularly in areas like financial reporting, HR tasks, and IT risk reduction. The importance of data quality in training reliable AI models was another significant point of discussion. Clare pointed out that Workday ensures high-quality data through a uniform structure across its customer base, essential for generating responsible and reliable insights. An exciting segment of our discussion focused on the UK's position in AI adoption globally and in Europe. Clare noted that the UK is ahead in terms of openness to AI and data accessibility compared to other regions. However, she also mentioned that regulations will continue to play a vital role in shaping responsible innovation in this field. As we looked ahead, Clare shared her predictions for the next decade of AI. While acknowledging the challenges in making accurate forecasts, she expressed confidence that AI would continue significantly boosting productivity and engagement, empowering us to become better versions of ourselves. Workday's commitment to developing impactful, responsible AI was a testament to this belief.

I explore the intricate world of cybersecurity with Adi Dubin, a seasoned expert from Skybox Security. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Adi brings a unique perspective to the table, discussing the challenges and strategies essential for modern cybersecurity. Adi begins by sharing his extensive background in cybersecurity and his role at Skybox Security, where he leads product management. His passion for continuous learning in this rapidly evolving field sets the tone for a deep and insightful conversation. We dive into Skybox Security's holistic approach to vulnerability identification and prioritization. Adi explains how their method combines both active and passive technologies, focusing on systematic and customer-specific risks. This approach ensures that organizations efficiently allocate their limited resources to address the most critical issues. The conversation then shifts to the topic of 'celebrity vulnerabilities'. Adi discusses the pitfalls of focusing solely on high-profile breaches, which can lead to a disproportionate allocation of resources and neglect other significant threats. He highlights Skybox's methodology, which considers both exposure and asset criticality, to determine the impact of various vulnerabilities on each customer. Further, we delve into the role of predictive analytics and artificial intelligence in cybersecurity. Adi talks about how machine learning aids in threat detection but also emphasizes the irreplaceable value of human judgment in making complex decisions. He stresses the importance of integrating comprehensive data and processes to enhance the effectiveness of these technologies in prioritization. Adi also touches upon the critical role of the human element in cybersecurity. He discusses how automation and algorithms are crucial but cannot entirely replace human intuition and problem-solving skills. Education, awareness, and policy play a vital role in fostering a proactive security culture within organizations. As we discuss emerging threats and strategies for effective prioritization, Adi points out the increasing sophistication of social engineering attacks. He advises on the importance of managing attack surfaces and exposure through discovery, risk assessment, automation, and swift response to stay ahead of evolving methods. In his final thoughts, Adi offers valuable advice for enhancing an organization's cybersecurity posture. He emphasizes the importance of collecting comprehensive operational and technical data to power effective prioritization, automation, training, and decision-making.

I sit down with Darcy MacClaren, the Chief Revenue Officer for the global supply chain at SAP, to explore the burgeoning role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing supply chain management. This episode is a must-listen for business leaders and tech enthusiasts keen on understanding the dynamic intersection of AI and supply chain operations. The conversation starts with Darcy sharing insights from her interactions with customers eagerly looking to AI to build more risk-resilient supply chains. She delves into how businesses prepare for potential disruptions, emphasizing the predictive power of AI in forecasting and mitigating unforeseen challenges. This discussion is particularly relevant for listeners interested in how AI can proactively approach supply chain management. We also explore the practical applications of AI in enhancing supply chain efficiency. They discuss integrating responsible and relevant AI technologies in optimizing warehouse organization, improving the accuracy of freight order deliveries, and refining demand planning forecasts. This segment is a deep dive into the operational benefits of AI, showcasing how intelligent systems can streamline processes and boost overall efficiency. A significant part of their discussion centers on business leaders' need to invest in supply chain technology. Darcy articulates why embracing AI is a trend and a strategic imperative for companies aiming to maintain a competitive edge. She highlights how SAP and its customers are already reaping the benefits of AI through automation and advanced analytics, leading to substantial time and cost savings. We also discuss the future trajectory of AI in supply chain management. They predict that generative AI will be crucial in revolutionizing the industry, offering contextualized responses and enhancing efficiency across various supply chain facets. Darcy also shares personal anecdotes, including her father and mentor Mitch Wesley's influence on her successful supply chain technology career.