Artificial intelligence as a driver of digital transformation in industries (HSE University)

6 Dec 2023 18:00h - 19:00h UTC

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Disclaimer: This is not an official record of the UNCTAD eWeek session. The DiploAI system automatically generates these resources from the audiovisual recording. Resources are presented in their original format, as provided by the AI (e.g. including any spelling mistakes). The accuracy of these resources cannot be guaranteed. The official record of the session can be found on the UNCTAD website.

Full session report

Mikhail Komarov

The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has created hype and introduced the world to new possibilities and advancements in digital technology. This presents numerous opportunities for the digital transformation of industries worldwide. However, concerns arise regarding the implementation of AI, particularly in relation to privacy, policy, and technology. The disclosure of confidential information is a key concern, and specific requirements need to be met in policy and technology to ensure AI is used correctly.

AI not only simplifies tasks and changes labour markets but also increases the demand for high-quality experts. It is leading to the automation of some business processes, transforming labour markets. However, highly qualified individuals are needed to check the quality of AI services and results.

Mikhail Komarov is specifically interested in the methodology used by Konstantin Vishnevskiy to obtain data and statistics. This highlights the importance of understanding the data gathering and analysis methods used in AI research.

The iFORA system is a useful AI tool that contains a wealth of information required for various fields, including scientific publications and educational programs. It has been successfully used for over 100 different projects, receiving recognition from respected organizations such as the OECD and Nature Journal.

The demand for modern technologies to support human wants and AI, in general, remains high. This is evident as young people have been brainstorming on improving human beings with the help of technologies for about six years now.

Implementing AI in sectors where immediate benefit can be seen, such as fintech and agriculture, is advantageous. This is because fintech can show results quickly, allowing for a fast effectiveness check, while agriculture projects take about a year to show results. However, implementation in healthcare is more complex due to ethical and confidentiality issues.

There is a common argument regarding AI implementations, with discussions about whether AI will replace or augment humans. The consensus is that AI is not about replacing humans but improving and assisting tasks.

There is a need for technically sound individuals to control and conduct quality checks on AI services. Constantine mentions variations in results from different institutions, emphasizing the importance of responsible developers and implementers at each step. In education, AI recommendations can be based on a student’s trajectory and feedback.

Prompt engineering is a new, crucial topic in AI and machine learning. Properly sending requests and analyzing results have become important aspects of AI development.

AI will have a direct influence on digital transformation in various industries. Organizations are actively trying to implement AI to improve businesses, government processes, and tasks for individuals.

In conclusion, the emergence of AI presents numerous opportunities for digital transformation. However, concerns regarding privacy, policy, and technology need to be addressed. AI simplifies tasks and changes labour markets, but also increases the demand for high-quality experts. Mikhail Komarov’s interest in the methodology used highlights the importance of data gathering and analysis. The iFORA system is a valuable AI tool that has been successfully used for various projects. Implementing AI in sectors with immediate benefits can be advantageous, but ethical and confidentiality issues need to be considered. AI implementations are about improving and assisting tasks, not replacing humans. The need for technically sound individuals for quality checks is emphasized. Prompt engineering is a crucial topic, and AI will play a significant role in digital transformation across industries. Finally, Komarov appreciates and thanks all panelists for their contributions to the discussion.

Ajay Mishra

The analysis offers a comprehensive examination of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on various sectors. One significant point discussed is the potential for 6G networks to create an ecosystem where all devices have artificial intelligence capabilities. This suggests that as the development of 6th generation networks progresses, every node will possess AI capabilities. The positive sentiment surrounding this idea indicates the high expectations for this transition.

Another notable point is the comparison drawn between the impact of AI and the Corona pandemic. The analysis suggests that AI will have a similar impact as the pandemic within the next two to four years. This neutral sentiment implies that AI’s influence will be far-reaching and transformative, possibly on a global scale.

The importance of automation as a necessary step towards full AI adoption is also emphasized. It is argued that while many projects claim to be “AI-powered,” they are not fully there yet and require automation before progressing towards AI integration. This positive sentiment highlights the significant role automation plays in advancing AI technology.

The analysis also emphasizes the urgent need for more AI-trained resources. It states that AI requires a strong understanding of data science, and academia must integrate AI into their curriculum due to time constraints. The concerned sentiment expressed indicates the perceived urgency of addressing the shortage of skilled professionals in the field of AI.

Ethics plays a crucial role in the discussion of AI. The analysis suggests that AI and ethics must go hand-in-hand, and government enforcement for an ethical AI framework is necessary to ensure responsible and beneficial AI usage. The strongly positive sentiment attached to this point underscores the belief that AI cannot be separated from ethical considerations.

The analysis presents evidence of AI’s current impact and potential in various sectors. Examples include AI being used by Google Maps to suggest the best route based on satellite images and mobile data, the application of AI in diagnosing and self-rectifying issues in mobile networks, and AI’s ability to predict health issues and recommend healthcare visits based on specific parameters. This positive sentiment reflects the significant strides AI has already made in these sectors.

Additionally, the analysis highlights Chat GPT as a defining moment in the AI industry, comparable to the iPhone’s impact. It predicts that AI will continue to reshape the world in the next ten years. This positive sentiment underscores the recognition of the revolutionary potential of AI and its anticipated transformative impact.

In summary, the analysis provides valuable insights into various aspects of AI, including its significance in the transition to 6G, its potential impact comparable to the Corona pandemic, the importance of automation as a necessary step towards full AI adoption, the need for more AI-trained resources, the integral relationship between AI and ethics, and its current application in different sectors. The analysis offers a comprehensive view of the evolving landscape of AI and its implications for the future.

Ivan Kolpashnikov

The discussion revolves around the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in various projects and industries. One aspect highlighted is the Digital Initiatives Fund, created within the structure of the Eurasian Development Bank to stimulate digital transformation. The Fund sees AI as a promising tool for achieving its goals, specifically in the context of the SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

However, there is a contrasting viewpoint that many projects falsely claim to use AI. The argument is that out of the projects that label themselves as having an AI component, only a fraction of them actually do. This raises concerns about the need for a deeper understanding and analysis of AI in projects. It is emphasized that it is important to understand what AI is and what it is not, and there is a need to define projects that genuinely have an AI component.

The ethical implications of AI are also addressed in the discussion. It is highlighted that without proper ethical considerations, the application of AI can be dangerous. There is a call for careful analysis of projects with an AI component, taking into account the potential risks and ensuring adherence to ethical standards. This is important to ensure that the application of AI aligns with SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

While there is optimism about the potential of AI, there is also a cautious approach to its implementation. It is acknowledged that AI is a promising technology that can bring about significant changes. However, it is important to be selective about its application and to have proper ethical guidelines in place to mitigate potential risks. This cautious approach is important for ensuring the achievement of SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth.

One particular argument discussed is the skepticism about the necessity of AI in analyzing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). Ivan questions whether AI was genuinely necessary in this case or if it was just an advanced algorithm. This skepticism suggests a questioning of the need for AI in certain situations and highlights the importance of accurately identifying and utilizing AI technology.

On the other hand, the benefits of using AI in various industries, such as healthcare, legal, and government sectors, are highlighted. AI is seen as a valuable tool that can analyze NDAs and provide accurate results. This positive perspective supports the argument that AI can be used in different industries to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, thus contributing to the achievement of SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being.

It is also noted in the discussion that AI has not yet significantly impacted industries as initially anticipated. Despite the use of smart technologies and AI for several years, the speaker observes no significant change brought about by AI. This sentiment reflects a more negative viewpoint on the transformative potential of AI and raises questions about its current impact on industry and infrastruture, specifically in the context of SDG 9.

Additionally, there is a sentiment that before fully exploring the potential of AI, we need to have a deeper understanding of the human being. This suggests that there is still much to learn and explore about human intelligence before fully harnessing the power of AI. This sentiment raises important questions about the limitations and potential of AI in relation to SDG 9.

In conclusion, the discussion highlights the need for a better understanding and analysis of AI in projects. Ethical considerations are essential in the application of AI, and caution is warranted in its implementation. While there are varying perspectives on the necessity and impact of AI, it is generally agreed upon that there is still much to explore and discover before fully realizing the potential of AI in various industries. This exploration is important for the achievement of SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, as well as other related SDGs.

Cláudio Lucena

The analysis examined multiple aspects of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on different industries. One key point highlighted is that AI has the potential to serve as a platform, similar to essential commodities like water and electricity. This suggests that AI can provide basic services to society. The concept of AI as a platform implies its capacity to deliver a wide range of functions and capabilities.

Regulation and governance were also discussed as crucial factors in AI development. The speakers noted that governments are actively involved in formulating and implementing regulations for AI technology. They mentioned the presence of 28 identified regulatory initiatives on AI in 2018, as well as the mapping of 604 initiatives by the Council of Europe. This demonstrates the commitment to responsible and ethical use of AI, which was viewed positively by the speakers.

Furthermore, the analysis explored the notion that AI can enhance tasks rather than replace professions. To support this argument, examples were provided, such as Law Geeks AI outperforming human lawyers in analyzing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). The AI identified 92% of mistakes, compared to 86% by human lawyers, completing the task in just 26 seconds. This evidence suggests that AI can significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of specific tasks, complementing human capabilities instead of replacing them entirely.

The impact of digital transformation on industries was also discussed. The speakers emphasized that digital transformation is opening up traditionally closed industries to competition, leading to increased opportunities for technology professionals. This highlights the transformative power of digital technology, with the integration of AI playing a significant role in reshaping industries and fostering growth and innovation.

Additionally, the speakers noted the evolving nature of AI. They mentioned that AI is incorporating more sophisticated techniques and becoming increasingly advanced. The presence of internal labs within the judicial system seeking to incorporate advanced AI solutions and the demand from technology companies for further advancements further illustrate this point.

In summary, the analysis examined the impact of AI on various industries. It highlighted the potential for AI to function as a platform, the importance of regulation and governance, the ability of AI to enhance tasks rather than replace professions, the transformative nature of digital transformation, and the evolving sophistication of AI techniques. These insights emphasize the significant role AI plays in shaping industries and society as a whole.

Alexey Masyutin

The analysis examines different aspects of AI, discussing its benefits and risks, its potential to accelerate development processes, its applications in various industries, the importance of responsibility in its development, its impact on everyday life, and its role in cybersecurity. It emphasises the need for thorough validation and testing of AI models, as well as the availability of libraries and programmatic solutions for monitoring data drift and assessing model quality. These measures contribute to the reliability and accuracy of AI systems.

The analysis highlights the existence of high-level libraries that enable automatic object detection, facilitating routine processes like data transformation. This demonstrates the potential of AI tools to enhance the efficiency of the model development process.

Furthermore, the analysis showcases real-world applications of AI in sectors such as education and telecom. It illustrates how AI can provide personalised recommendations in education, enhancing students’ learning experience. In the telecom industry, AI expedites network design, enabling faster and more reliable communication.

Responsibility is deemed crucial in the development and implementation of AI, as highlighted by the speakers. They stress the importance of considering the influence of AI on user behaviour and experience. Careful validation of AI models is also emphasised to ensure ethical and responsible deployment of AI.

The analysis also discusses the impact of AI on everyday life, noting how AI algorithms such as face recognition and recommendation systems are already integrated into people’s daily routines. Face ID or fingerprint recognition on phones and personalised product recommendations during online shopping are attributed to AI advancements. This underscores the pervasive nature of AI and its potential to disrupt various aspects of daily life.

Regarding cybersecurity, the analysis acknowledges both the risks and benefits of AI. It mentions that AI can be used fraudulently to crack codes. However, it can also be utilised protectively by antivirus and cybersecurity companies to combat emerging threats. Thus, the use and impact of AI technology depend on the intentions and actions of those wielding it.

Finally, the analysis concludes by emphasising the significance of individual perspectives and expectations in defining and shaping AI. It implies that perceptions and definitions of AI vary among individuals and that the technology’s potential impact is influenced by our expectations.

Overall, this comprehensive analysis provides insights into the multifaceted nature of AI, highlighting its benefits, potential risks, diverse applications, ethical considerations, impact on daily life, and cybersecurity implications. It underscores the need for responsible development and implementation, as well as the ongoing societal impact of this rapidly advancing technology.

Konstantin Vishnevskiy

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly expanding field that encompasses a range of technologies such as computer vision, natural language processing, and speech recognition. It has become an integral part of digital technologies worldwide, supporting advancements in areas such as industry, innovation, and infrastructure. The field of AI includes around 200 specialised topics and has witnessed exponential growth, with approximately 400,000 publications in the last decade alone.

Furthermore, there has been a significant rise in AI research and patent applications in recent years. From 2011 to 2016, AI research remained stable, but since 2017, there has been an exponential surge in scientific publications and patent submissions. Remarkably, 65% of the global number of patent applications related to AI come from Chinese authors, highlighting China’s dominance in the field.

However, despite the advancements in AI, there is a notable caution when it comes to applying it to personal aspects of life, such as caring for the elderly or teaching children. Less than 20% of individuals are willing to utilise AI or robotics systems to look after their elderly parents or use them as educational tools for their children. This reluctance suggests a lack of acceptance and trust in AI technologies for deeply intimate and personal tasks.

Another concern surrounding AI is the potential impact on employment. Many believe that AI and robotics could replace a significant number of jobs, with some studies suggesting that up to half of all jobs in the United States could be taken over by robots by 2030. The Institute of the Future even stated that 95% of current tasks could be performed more efficiently using AI and other technologies. This prediction raises important questions about the future of employment and the need for strategies to adapt to this changing landscape.

On the other hand, AI and neurotechnologies hold promise for human enhancement. Approximately 40% of young people worldwide are eagerly awaiting new technologies that can transform traditional routines and enhance human capital. This presents an optimistic view of AI’s potential to positively impact human capabilities and overall well-being.

In addition, the iFORA system, a unique AI tool, offers valuable data analysis capabilities. The system contains a vast amount of information, including over 700 million documents in multiple languages such as Russian, English, and Chinese. It incorporates scientific publications, patents, job vacancies, and educational programs. The iFORA system’s capabilities and extensive database make it a valuable resource for researchers and analysts in various fields.

In conclusion, AI is a rapidly advancing field with significant potential in various domains. While it has become a central component of digital technologies, there are concerns about its application to personal aspects of life and its impact on employment. However, there is optimism about AI’s potential for human enhancement, and tools like the iFORA system offer valuable data analysis capabilities. As AI continues to evolve, it is crucial to consider both the opportunities and challenges it presents to create a responsible and beneficial integration of this technology in society.

AM

Ajay Mishra

Speech speed

160 words per minute

Speech length

1858 words

Speech time

696 secs

AM

Alexey Masyutin

Speech speed

131 words per minute

Speech length

1162 words

Speech time

532 secs

CL

Cláudio Lucena

Speech speed

160 words per minute

Speech length

1756 words

Speech time

660 secs

IK

Ivan Kolpashnikov

Speech speed

139 words per minute

Speech length

2076 words

Speech time

897 secs

KV

Konstantin Vishnevskiy

Speech speed

112 words per minute

Speech length

1645 words

Speech time

882 secs

MK

Mikhail Komarov

Speech speed

144 words per minute

Speech length

2548 words

Speech time

1063 secs