Practical AI

Ville Tuulos, CEO at Outer Bounds and former leader of data science at Netflix, shares his insights on scaling AI and ML workflows. He discusses the evolution of data science infrastructure and the creation of Metaflow, highlighting its role in addressing common frustrations in data workflows. Ville emphasizes the importance of experimentation in successful AI integration and the changing skill sets needed in the industry. He also explores the future of data science infrastructure and the promise of enhanced integration between machine learning tools.

Michael Malyuk from the Label Studio team shares insights on the evolving landscape of data labeling. He emphasizes how organizations are now viewing labeling as a strategic asset. The discussion touches on the influence of the pandemic on labeling practices and the significance of quality metrics. Malyuk also explores advancements in open-source tools like Label Studio, highlighting features that support various data types. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on the future of labeling, including the integration of human oversight and exciting new capabilities like video.

Yonatan Geifman, CEO of Deci, dives into the cutting-edge world of AI inference optimization. He shares insights on building fast, effective deep learning models tailored for various hardware, emphasizing the importance of designing models with inference requirements in mind. Discussions include unique techniques like pruning and quantization, the role of AutoNAC in optimizing neural architectures, and how DESI nets elevate performance in image classification tasks. Buckle up for a high-speed journey through AI advancements!

Joining the conversation is Peter Wang, a key figure at Anaconda specializing in data science technology. He discusses the latest findings from the 'State of Data Science' survey, revealing how the pandemic reshaped data science practices and job roles. Peter also introduces Anaconda's exciting partnership with Pyston, which aims to enhance Python performance. The dialogue dives into challenges data scientists face today, including model deployment hurdles, and the ongoing evolution of tools in this dynamic field.

Dive into lively discussions about a fresh AI lexicon that challenges conventional narratives. The speakers humorously reflect on personal experiences during the pandemic, while also exploring AI's recent advancements like GitHub Copilot. They tackle the differences between practical machine learning and marketing-driven AI perceptions. Misconceptions around AI are demystified, framing it in relatable terms. Lastly, ethical concerns in tech—like function creep—are considered, along with accessible resources to help navigate this evolving landscape.

Jay Patel and Sathy Rajasekharan from Jacaranda Health share their mission to revolutionize maternal care in Kenya using AI-powered NLP solutions. They discuss the alarming maternal mortality rates and how SMS technology helps prioritize urgent messages from pregnant mothers. The duo explores the challenges of data labeling and collaboration in developing effective communication platforms. They also highlight the importance of navigating Kenya's linguistic diversity to enhance health responses, ultimately aiming to ensure safe childbirth and newborn care.

Join hosts Meg Risdal, a Kaggle expert and co-host of SLICED, and Nick Wan, who brings the heat from Twitch, as they dive into the thrilling world of competitive data science. Discover how SLICED creates a vibrant community that merges coding with entertainment. They share insights on unique datasets, the pressure of live coding competitions, and the adrenaline of algorithmic showdowns. Plus, hear about exciting upcoming championships and how contestants evolve into confident data scientists through these challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Yotam Mann, co-founder of Never Before Heard Sounds and innovator in AI audio technology, reveals how machine learning is reshaping music creation. He shares insight on transforming voices into musical instruments and the groundbreaking Holly Plus technology for personalized vocal models. Yotam highlights challenges in real-time audio processing and emphasizes the ethical dimensions of AI in music, including artists' rights and the industry's future with AI-enhanced live performances.

Learn about the essential elements of building a successful data team. Explore the unexpected skill gaps in new hires and the importance of versatility. Delve into the historical evolution of data teams, the challenges they face, and the shift towards diverse roles. Discover strategies for fostering a data-driven culture and enhancing cooperation between technical experts and stakeholders. Hear insights on effective human management, communication, and the integration of AI in various applications.

Roey Mechrez, CTO at BeyondMinds, shares his expertise on building robust AI systems and highlights the gap between academic research and practical deployment. He discusses why 90% of AI projects fail to create value, emphasizing the importance of stability and specificity in model performance. Roey dives into crucial techniques like data filtration, out-of-distribution detection, and the need for human oversight to enhance reliability. His insights reveal the critical role of tailored solutions and continuous model retraining to navigate the complexities of real-world AI implementation.