Presented at the 2024 AITPM National Conference, this short video features John Reid addressing the critical role of data in Artificial Intelligence. John highlights the potential danger of AI becoming a "black box" that churns out conclusions that could be based on unreliable or spurious data.
The video provides a concise Q&A format covering key issues regarding the need for rigorous data standards in AI development. It traces concerns about data quality back to the early days of computing with the concept of "Garbage in, Garbage out" and extends to more recent warnings about the severe consequences of poor data input into automated systems.
Through real-world examples, John demonstrates how the misuse of data, such as reducing it to averages, can lead to significant misunderstandings and even catastrophic decisions. The video concludes with an inspiring historical reference to Florence Nightingale, who revolutionised nursing through precise data collection and analysis.