The premiere of 'AI and Robotics: A Near Future You're Not Prepared For'
On the 23rd of May, Nash Squared premiered our latest documentary in the ‘Tech Flix’ series at the National Robotarium, just outside Edinburgh. This third edition was titled, ‘AI and Robotics: A Near Future You’re Not Prepared For’ and explored the issues facing digital leaders looking to adopt automation with analysis from across the sector.
Whilst the film itself will be released later in the summer after further screenings in New York and London, a local panel of experts added a huge amount of context and detail following the credits.
Joining Cameron Macgrain (Harvey Nash Regional Director) on the panel were Gary Crawford (Waracle), Kjersti Ferguson (Scottish Government), Samantha Rhynas (Effini), Graham Hosking (Quorum Cyber) and Angus Allan (xDesign).
So, what were the key discussion points in the room when the credits started to roll?
Unsurprisingly one of the key themes was the need to maintain the human element in decision-making. Angus Allan was at pains to stress the point. In fact, human qualities appear to be hugely important when dealing with AI.
We know that AI is prone to hallucinating and therefore spreading misinformation. When we encounter another person doing that, we spot it and we are sceptical, but we fail to look at the results we are getting from GenAI tools in anything more than binary: yes or no, or right and wrong.
Kjersti also made the point that we spend rather too much time worrying about AI’s impact on humans and society, and not enough on how we actually want to use it.
Another topic of discussion was policy and regulation; but through the prism of its impact on innovation. Gary pointed out that it was crucial to ensure innovative ideas were not constrained. There was clear concern amongst the panel that due to the rate of change, organisations needed to consider building flexibility into their policies to respond to a rapidly evolving technology landscape.
Graham also added that none of this is new, so we really cannot afford to wait for the government, and we should have the policies in place already!
Data governance was raised, as was the need to ensure we only use AI where it helps. Both points rely on education and understanding of the challenges presented.
One terrifying thought highlighted, was that we are moving from an attention economy to a relationship economy, where the public might view AI as a friend.
Given its intentions will always have another purpose behind them, owned elsewhere, that is a real concern; especially for parents trying to navigate technology with impressionable children.
Samantha also made the point that just because someone might have experience working as a technology professional, or as an engineer, it does not mean you are an expert in AI. It is a point that underscores that this really is an area where there are still many more questions than answers.
It all begs the question, what are the biggest questions you have concerning the adoption of AI in business, and do you feel prepared?
About the author:
David Savage is the Group Technology Evangelist for our parent company, Nash Squared. He has a deep understanding of the technology and talent markets and spends his time crafting podcasts, hosting video debates, speaking, moderating conferences, and chairing keynote stages.
Since 2017, he has been the editor and host of Tech Talks, a show about leadership and technology currently ranked as one of the most popular podcasts in the world.
View all news and insights
![""](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481085/e8f490db-5e25-444a-4fcc-08d5e585642c/2023.17000.2861/img/vYZLNpp01U9ulAjcupQZ5A/75/Cybersecurity+-+roles-min.png)
Teaser
PostContent Type
Latest NewsPublish date
08/23/2024
Summary
What is Cybersecurity? Cybersecurity is the practice of safeguarding our computer systems, networks, and sensitive data. At its core, it’s the practice of defending against cyberattacks—the
by
Holly Jennings
![""](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481085/e8f490db-5e25-444a-4fcc-08d5e585642c/2023.17000.2861/img/k47CVg2h9UxXJAjcupPR8g/75/Cybersecurity+-+what+is+it-min.png)
Teaser
PostContent Type
Latest NewsPublish date
08/23/2024
Summary
In today's digital age, cybersecurity plays a critical role in safeguarding sensitive information and protecting businesses from cyber threats. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the dem
by
Holly Jennings
![""](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481085/e8f490db-5e25-444a-4fcc-08d5e585642c/2023.17000.2861/img/j4O1dligBkxtxgjcupQZ5A/75/CTrO+-min.png)
Teaser
PostContent Type
Latest NewsPublish date
08/16/2024
Summary
In the rapidly evolving business and digital landscape, the role of the Chief Transformation Officer (CTrO) has become increasingly significant. As organisations grapple with the challenge
Related jobs
Salary
£90000 - £105000.00 per annum
Location
City of London, London
Sector
Infrastructure & Operations
Location
City of London
Job Type
Permanent
Description
Our client are a multinational Financial Services Group who are hiring for a Senior Delivery Manager. £90k-£105k + Bonus1 x every 2 weeks in the office in Central London This is a team of 15, they ess
Reference
BBBH108887_1725712258
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Author
Adam HarperAuthor
Adam HarperSalary
£450 - £600 per day
Location
Havant, Hampshire
Sector
Technology Leadership
Location
Hampshire
Job Type
Contract
Description
IT Delivery Lead Location: Perth / Havant (Hybrid working) Overview: We are looking for an experienced IT Delivery Lead to join our client's team, responsible for leading a DevOps product team. The ro
Reference
BBBH108883_1725638594
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Author
Emmanuel SackeyAuthor
Emmanuel SackeySalary
Up to £90000 per annum
Location
Edinburgh
Sector
Software Development & Engineering
Location
Edinburgh & Lothians
Job Type
Permanent
Description
Harvey Nash are pleased to be working with a global software business who develops software for the healthcare space. Market-leading in what they do, they’re going through an exciting period of growth
Reference
BBBH108626_1725635304
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Author
Ben GriffinAuthor
Ben Griffin