Tech & AI LIVE London: Innovation Through AI and Data

October 29, 2024

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Kirsty Biddiscombe of NetApp explored the role of AI, machine learning, and analytics in driving business transformation

In a fireside chat at Tech & AI LIVE London, Kirsty Biddiscombe, UK Sales Business Development Manager for AI, Machine Learning, and Analytics at NetApp, discussed how AI and machine learning (ML) are transforming industries.

Kirsty provides practical examples, starting with agriculture, where farmers use drones equipped with cameras to identify and target specific crops for treatment.

“This approach reduces the need to spray entire fields, lowering environmental impact and costs,” she explains.

Kirsty also mentions advancements in healthcare, where AI is being applied to preventative medicine. By analysing DNA markers and comparing anomalies across massive datasets, AI can predict a patient’s likelihood of developing certain conditions by age 40.

This allows for early intervention, which is not only life-saving but also saves millions of pounds for healthcare providers like the NHS.

“The human eye could never identify these anomalies, but AI can,” she notes, emphasising the technology’s potential for early diagnosis.

The role of guardrails in AI deployment

One of the key challenges with deploying AI is ensuring safety and security, particularly in sensitive areas like healthcare and autonomous vehicles. Kirsty stresses the importance of “guardrails” to prevent unintended consequences.

These guardrails include stringent testing and proof of concept (POC) phases, as well as tools like digital twins, which allow companies to simulate real-world scenarios and anticipate potential issues.

“Nothing goes into production without being thoroughly tested,” she assures the audience.

Data security remains a top priority, especially in AI projects involving sensitive or personal data. Kirsty describes how clean, accurate, and secure data is essential for AI success, as inaccurate data can lead to what she termed “hallucinations” in AI outputs.

To address this, NetApp and its partners implement comprehensive data security protocols and real-time monitoring to detect and prevent data breaches.

Kirsty Biddiscombe, UK Sales Business Development Manager for AI, Machine Learning, and Analytics at NetApp

The importance of clean data and secure access

Kirsty highlights that over 60% of AI projects fail to reach production because legacy systems are unable to support the necessary environments. She compares data to clean and dirty water, stressing that clean, reliable data is crucial for generating accurate AI outcomes.

“If you build the right foundation, what you build on top will be solid,” she explains, advising companies to invest in assessing and modernising their data environments.

As AI continues to grow, Kirsty noted the exponential increase in data production and emphasised the importance of secure, centralised access.

“Everything around us is producing data—from sensors to photographs,” she says, warning that companies must keep data security at the forefront of AI initiatives. She praised NetApp’s built-in ransomware protection, which uses AI to detect and stop potential threats while preserving the integrity of the original data.

Kirsty Biddiscombe, UK Sales Business Development Manager for AI, Machine Learning, and Analytics at NetApp

Opportunities for small and large companies

Kirsty was optimistic about the opportunities AI offers to both large enterprises and smaller companies. While large organisations have the resources to invest heavily in AI, smaller companies can still benefit from agile AI applications that enable them to go to market faster and be more responsive.

“There’s no longer a need for a build or buy mentality,” she explains, pointing out that smaller businesses can leverage third-party platforms to quickly deploy AI solutions.

For companies embarking on digital transformation journeys, Kirsty advises seeking strong partnerships with experienced technology providers. She recommends engaging in ideation workshops to identify high-value use cases and working with partners who understand their specific needs.

“Find a partner that shares your vision and isn’t just trying to sell you something,” she urges.

Kirsty Biddiscombe, UK Sales Business Development Manager for AI, Machine Learning, and Analytics at NetApp

Future trends and emerging challenges

Looking ahead, Kirsty identified data security as a key trend shaping the future of AI, with growing concerns about ransomware and data integrity. She also highlighted the ongoing evolution of AI in sectors like healthcare, where genome sequencing and personalised medicine are advancing rapidly.

“The potential for rare disease treatments and cancer cures is coming from these innovations,” she notes, urging companies to embrace responsible AI development.

Kirsty ends with a call to action, encouraging companies to be open to innovation and to explore AI’s transformative potential.

“Don’t be scared of it—be creative and consider how AI can help your organisation,” she advises. However, she also stressed the need for businesses to remain vigilant about data security and to work with technology partners who prioritise these aspects.

Kirsty Biddiscombe’s fireside chat underscored the importance of data-driven innovation and responsible AI deployment. By focusing on clean data, secure systems, and collaborative partnerships, companies can unlock the full potential of AI to drive transformation and improve customer experiences.