AI+ 2024 Surpasses its Predecessor in Size and Quality

Day 2 of AI+ 2024 unfolded in the bustling Byparken, teeming with attendees. PHOTO: AI+ Stein Johnsen, ContentVideo

Following the many highlights of day 1 – the second day of AI+ 2024 was packed with insightful sessions and engaging discussions, continuing the tradition of delivering high-quality content and fostering meaningful connections among AI enthusiasts.

For some, the day started early with an AI+ morning jog in Halden city center, while others were enjoying their morning brew. At 09:00 the first part of the day started with three parallel sessions. One session focused on the business part of AI, the second focused on risk, and the third focused on AI and education. 

Three different perspectives on AI

AI+ business discussed how AI is transforming businesses across various industries, highlighting its impact on efficiency, productivity, and innovation. It emphasizeds the importance of AI in decision-making processes, enabling companies to make data-driven choices and gain competitive advantages. The business session also explored the challenges businesses face when adopting AI, such as data privacy concerns and the need for skilled professionals. 

At the risk session speakers from the Institute of Energy Technology, Proactima, and Eggen.ai explored the potential dangers associated with artificial intelligence. They discussed various scenarios where AI could pose risks, such as unintended consequences, bias, and the potential for misuse. The speakers emphasized the importance of addressing these risks proactively to ensure the safe development of AI technologies and the importance of managing AI risk to harness its benefits while mitigating potential harm. 

The AI+ education session was held at Halden City Hall. Østfold University College (HiØ) organized a session on AI in the university and college sector. HiØ believes that the sector has a unique starting point for success with AI, which in turn can lead to increased collaboration in research, improved study programs, and a business and public sector that is better able to utilize AI technology. 

Ethical and responsible AI discussions

After lunch with time for some food and mingling at Byparken, it was time for the main session of day 2. 

Morten L Dahlback from Faktisk.no led the first discussion, joined by Jan Ketil Arnulf and Alex Moltzau. They explored how AI, while aiding in the spread of misinformation, also plays a vital role in our search for truth. By utilizing machine learning and complex algorithms, AI can analyze huge amounts of data faster than human fact-checkers. However, questions arise about whether we can trust machines to guide us to the truth or if they might lead us astray. The panel highlighted the importance of understanding AI`s impact on information reliability and the need for critical thinking in evaluating AI-generated content.

The second panel, led by Gard Støe from AIBA and Nora Antonsen from NAYA, discussed the importance of ethical AI in today’s business landscape. They emphasized that ethical AI is not just a moral responsibility but also a competitive advantage. The panel explored how organizations can turn ethical guidelines into strategic advantages amidst growing competition. 

Nora Antonsen is Co-Founder and CPO at Naya Development, a startup providing dignified employment to women in Indian slums to process and label data for use in AI. PHOTO: AI+ Stein Johnsen, ContentVideo

In the third panel, moderated by Marianne Hagelia from HiØ and Ole Tom Seierstad from Microsoft, speakers Hugo Berg Otterlei and Nicolai Halbo from Simonsen Vogt Wiig discussed the balance between technological progress and societal values. They highlighted the need for thoughtful regulations that can foster innovation while protecting societal interests. 

The final panel, led by a summarization from an AI, and moderated by Kjetil Staalesen from LO, Ingvild Strand von Krogh from Abelia, Jan Kjetil Arnulf from BI, and Eli Haugerud from Smart Innovation Norway, focused on navigation AI adoption for business value. The discussion revolved around how Norwegian businesses can leverage AI to create real value and differentiate themselves in a competitive global market while adhering to ethical standards and regulations. 

The conference concluded that while AI presents immense opportunities, businesses must navigate complex ethical, regulatory, and societal landscapes to maximize its potential benefits. 

Thank you all for being a part of AI+ 2024 – we are already counting down the days until we can reunite and continue the AI revolution together!