As we approach a new year full of potential, the technology landscape, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), is poised to undergo a significant transformation. Manish Jethwa, technical director of Ordnance Survey (OS), Britain’s national mapping agency, offers an insightful overview of what we can expect from these advances and their implications for the geospatial sector.
Breaking down barriers with AI
Looking ahead, Jethwa expects to see continued and significant advancements in AI and machine learning, especially with the push towards the AI generation. According to him, integrating large language models (LLM) with more sophisticated agents will not only enable complex tasks to be performed on behalf of users, but will also further reduce barriers to interaction. This shift, particularly in the geospatial domain, means that the translation of natural language into precise data queries will become more seamless, ultimately making geospatial datasets more accessible, more common, and more user-friendly.
Training for complex tasks
Beyond LLMs, Jethwa is optimistic about progress in the broader machine learning category, driven by greater access to graphics processing units for training.
He says: “At Ordnance Survey (OS) we will leverage this capability to train models for specific, complex tasks such as automatically extracting features from images.
“With an increasing volume of automatically generated data, we hope that the next year will also bring innovative tools and techniques to validate the data, ensuring that it can be used with confidence for its intended purpose.”
It highlights the importance of not only pursuing new capabilities, but also ensuring that these tools are responsibly integrated into workflows, focusing on quality and risk management.
The ethical boundary
The rapid evolution of AI drives an urgent need for ethical considerations.
Jethwa explains: “I would like to see more emphasis on ethical AI and responsible technology development”, including creating AI systems that are “transparent, fair and impartial” while taking into account their impact environmental and societal.
This emphasis on ethics is summarized in OS’s Responsible AI Charter, which guides their approach to integrating new techniques safely.
Additionally, Jethwa highlights the role of workforce development in successful transformations. He believes that organizations must commit to “reskilling and upskilling employees to prepare them for the impact of AI and digital transformation.”
This is essential to ensure that, in their quest for greater efficiency, businesses do not “lose the personality, creativity and emotion that we bring as humans to the workplace”.
Accept change while managing risks
Despite the promise of technological advancements, obstacles remain on the path to digital transformation. Jethwa notes that challenges such as “cultural resistance and rapid change leading to change fatigue are likely to persist.”
It advocates a careful balance between the adoption of new technologies and the consideration of human elements in transformation processes.
As AI continues to influence various aspects of businesses, from decision-making to risk management, the issue of cybersecurity also assumes major importance. Jethwa highlights that “AI-powered cybersecurity threats are increasingly sophisticated,” urging companies to develop comprehensive strategies covering everything from data storage to analytics documentation.
The imperative of progress
In a changing landscape, organizations that stagnate risk falling behind their competitors. Jethwa explains: “Companies that fail to keep pace face risks, such as changing customer expectations and talent attraction and retention. »
It also highlights the need for “a clear vision of future goals, effective communication of progress and celebration of key milestones to maintain momentum” in digital transformation initiatives.
As we enter a new year full of promise, the future of AI and geospatial technology holds transformative power – but it must be used responsibly. The path ahead in 2025 requires vigilance, an unwavering commitment to ethical practices and a human touch to drive successful innovation.
(Photos from Annie Spratt and Ammunition Investigation)
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