Organizations can further optimize their operations by fully realizing the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) beyond its high-profile applications, according to David Hardoon, CEO of Aboitiz Data Innovation (ADI), the data science and AI division of the Aboitiz Group.
In a recent media briefing, Hardoon emphasized the importance of operational focus, noting that while revenue generation and risk management are crucial, enhancing operational efficiency through AI can bring significant benefits.
“Many times, the predominant focus is on revenue generation, protection, and, in regulated industries, power, and risk management operations,” Hardoon said. He underscored that AI can significantly enhance operational efficiency, often overlooked in discussions about AI’s capabilities.
ADI assists organizations in identifying areas where AI can be effectively implemented and provides the right applications to enhance those areas. Even top-performing organizations can benefit from the new tools and capabilities that AI offers, enabling people to perform tasks that were previously impossible.
Critical processes that can tolerate some degree of failure are ideal starting points for AI deployment. By beginning with use cases that deliver modest yet noticeable improvements, organizations can build trust in AI systems before pursuing more ambitious applications.
Collaborations
“It’s crucial to start with operations that are important but not so critical that failure would be catastrophic,” Hardoon noted. “This approach allows for the gradual integration and validation of AI solutions without risking major disruptions.”
In AI development, it is essential to validate data and ensure that AI models generalize well across different scenarios. This involves building systems that are adaptable and capable of performing well in various contexts, not just specific tasks.
ADI aims to become the “go-to” AI implementation expert in the next decade, both within the Philippines and internationally. Hardoon, a pioneer in introducing AI within the Aboitiz Group, continues to drive the company’s AI initiatives.
ADI collaborates with Cloudera to leverage generative AI in the financial services and industrial sectors. It has also partnered with Thailand’s Repco Next and AboitizPower to create the country’s first smart power plant, utilizing AI-driven proactive maintenance to enhance asset health and reduce downtime.
Hardoon mentioned ongoing talks with organizations in Azerbaijan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore, signaling ADI’s intent to expand its AI expertise and collaboration across borders.