This year, 75% of companies are expected to move from doing proof of concepts on AI to actually operationalizing the technology. The question of how to do that in an ethical and responsible way was the topic of a Techonomy discussion at the recent World Economic Forum meeting in Davos this year.
Hosted by Dan Costa, chief content officer at Worth Media Group and Techonomy, the session featured contributions from Suzanne Dann, CEO of the Americas at technology services and consulting company WiPro, and Alex McMullan, CTO, international at data storage provider Pure Storage.
“Our clients expect us to be the orchestrators of this transition,” said Wipro’s Dann, “ ensuring that the deployment of AI is not only innovative but also responsible and aligned with their business objectives.”
Alex McMullan of Pure Storage added a technical perspective to the conversation, focusing on the crucial role of data storage and management in the deployment of AI. He stated, “The backbone of effective AI deployment is the ability to manage and process vast quantities of data efficiently. At Pure Storage, we’re committed to providing solutions that meet these extensive data requirements, ensuring that the transition from concept to operation is seamless and efficient.”
Ethics in AI Deployment
The discussion then shifted towards the balance between pursuing efficiency and fostering growth through AI applications. Businesses are not only looking to streamline operations and reduce costs through AI but also to drive innovation, open new markets, and create avenues for growth.
“Deploying AI responsibly is not just about technological innovation; it’s about ensuring that the technology reflects our ethical standards and societal values,” Dann said. “At WiPro, we’ve developed frameworks that emphasize these aspects, ensuring that our AI solutions are not only effective but also ethically sound and transparent.”
McMullan discussed the technical challenges associated with AI deployment, particularly concerning data storage and computational requirements. “As we operationalize AI, the demand for storage and compute power escalates. Addressing these demands is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of AI solutions,” he said. “At Pure Storage, we’re constantly innovating to meet these challenges, ensuring that our storage solutions are capable of supporting the complex needs of AI applications.”
Balancing Government and Industry Responsibilities
The role of government regulations in guiding the responsible deployment of AI was a critical point of discussion. “Government regulations are essential in setting the baseline for ethical AI deployment. However, businesses have a responsibility to go beyond compliance,” Dann said. “At WiPro, we’re proactive in ensuring that our AI solutions not only meet regulatory standards but also embody our commitment to ethical practices and social responsibility.”
McMullan added, “While regulations provide a framework, the onus is on businesses and technology providers to internalize these principles and integrate them into our operational ethos. At Pure Storage, we view regulations as a starting point, and we’re committed to exceeding these standards through our dedication to responsible innovation.”
As the session drew to a close, the conversation moved towards the future. “In the coming years, we’ll see a more profound integration of AI in business operations, coupled with an increased focus on ethical considerations.” Dann predicted, “I believe governance structures will evolve, and we’ll witness a more collaborative effort between businesses.”
