Microsoft's Future Now Conference discusses the implications of AI on business and society

“Today’s technologies can be used to amplify human ingenuity.”-Microsoft Canada’s VP of Marketing and Operations Emma Da SilvaBy Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, Machine Learning, Cloud Computing.  These were once all theoretical buzzwords bordering on science fiction and pertaining to the ideals of a far off future. These concepts, however, are very much in practice today and at an exponential rate which will not only change the way businesses operate, but will also transform society, jobs and the workplace as well as various industries.

Microsoft Canada took to the historic Carlu events venue to discuss the Future Now with various experts in applied sciences, AI and other related fields to shed clarity, insight and understanding in these emerging technologies.

AI has demonstrated to be a game changing innovation. Easily as important as the discovery of electricity or the Internet in years past. Machines can now learn at staggering rates without much human intervention. Infineon used AI and a robot to solve the Rubik's Cube puzzle in under one second. AI in various applications is expected to add $16 Trillion to the global economy in the next 20 years. It can drive innovation, reach more people at exponential rates. Professor Mark Skilton, who was the keynote speaker at the event, discussed the need for businesses to understand and adapt their models and future with this in mind.

“Today’s technologies can be used to amplify human ingenuity.” said Microsoft Canada’s VP of Marketing Emma Da Silva. Microsoft, whose Azure cloud services are the backbone of various A.I. and machine learning technologies, has taken on the role of advocate as well as steward for AI. The company believes that the resulting Digital transformation helps us to be more productive and we can create more value, do more in less time. Microsoft's big push, however, is that we should proceed responsibly.

There are many implications stemming from AI in the workplace. What jobs or functions will become fully automated and, as a result, will no longer need human workers. How will businesses and government present the opportunities and the challenges to people. Will AI create new jobs? What will be considered transferable skills towards this new future and how can the technology be implemented free of bias.