7. Intro to Algorithms and Big Data

The key learning points from this episode are:

• Algorithms are just sets of rules for computers to follow
• Algorithms need data to be useful
• Data is by definition historic because it is information on what has already happened
• A combination of AI and algorithms can create better user experiences, which can result in more usage, which then results in even more data and happy customers
• Algorithms amplify the data. If there are biases in the data, they will grow as a result of the algorithm. Rubbish data = rubbish algorithms = useless product

If you want to learn more and ask your questions, then join the Business of AI session with Harvard Business School Professor Marco Iansiti on 1 July 2020.

The full recording and session notes will be available in Tech for Non-Techies membership. 

Prof Iansiti’s book Competing in the Age of AI: Strategy and Leadership When Algorithms and Networks Run the World is one of the most comprehensive books on AI for non-techies available today.

If you want to understand how rubbish data or the absence of relevant data creates rubbish algorithms Invisible Women: Exposing Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Perez is an excellent resource.

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