Sifting through this year's chat bot and AI predictions, it's clear that conversations have finally shifted from human versus computer, (so last century), to the exponential value of people plus machines. If researchers can be believed, a new breed of chat bots has emerged, smarter than ever, with stronger benefits for companies and their customers. Most noticeable was the cascading impact of AI. We can expect a bit of upheaval market-wide and across workforce practices, all the way down to some groundbreaking opportunities for software developers. Starting at the topmost view, IDC predicted the market for automated customer service agents will total $2.2 billion by next year.

Mark has over 10 years of experience within AI and Analytics. Before joining the group Mark was responsible for AI within Sogeti Netherlands where he was responsible for the development of the team and business as well as the AI Strategy. He has worked with clients from multiple markets internationally on technologies around AI, Deep Learning and Machine Learning. When a mortgage application is accepted or rejected, the decision is often based on a whole range of factors that an automated AI is configured to measure. Many organizations have adopted a "black box" neural network model, for example using IBM's Watson, that safeguards the data, yet also prevents them providing a reason for the decision that's been made - something legislation now requires.