Cutting through the noise: could artificial intelligence lead to better people insight?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has undergone numerous Hype Cycles over the last five decades but, if the analysts are to be believed, we now find ourselves once again at the'Peak of Inflated Expectations' – with the impending'Trough of Disillusionment' ahead. The media has raised consumer expectations by proliferating visions of intelligent assistants and self-driving cars, but while these are some way off becoming reality, AI is still a critical technology, one which could contribute $15.7tr to the global economy by 2030. This potential means that we're seeing increased development of machine learning algorithms, the benefits of which are being felt across industries – from manufacturing to financial services. The opportunity presented by AI was also recognised in the recent Budget, which commits £20 million to supporting businesses working in AI and £9 million to the establishment of an AI advisory body. Organisations in the HCM space are taking great strides towards AI, particularly in the shared service function using smart software, but they also need to be vigilant, and ensure they're walking the walk before they talk the talk.