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AI Safety: Why Mindful Machines are so Important

Ensuring AI advancements align with ethical and safety standards.

Author

James Garner
May 28, 2024

Opinion - The Importance of the AI Seoul Summit

The AI Seoul Summit was a pivotal event in the ongoing discourse around AI safety, innovation, and inclusivity. Following the landmark 2023 UK AI Safety Summit, the Seoul conference aimed to sustain momentum in addressing AI's global risks and benefits. Notably, the summit saw sixteen major AI companies, including Microsoft, OpenAI, Google, and Amazon, commit to ethical guidelines, pledging not to develop models capable of large-scale cyber attacks or bioweapons.

This is crucial as it marks the first significant collective action towards AI safety. The summit also reinforced international cooperation, with countries like Japan, South Korea, and Canada announcing their AI safety institutes. These institutes, working as a network, aim to bolster global capacity to manage AI risks, ensuring a coordinated approach to safety and governance.

The importance of the AI Seoul Summit cannot be overstated. With AI rapidly evolving, the potential for misuse increases. This summit's commitments and collaborative efforts signal a proactive stance in mitigating these risks. It emphasises that while AI holds tremendous promise, its development must be guided by robust ethical standards to avoid catastrophic consequences.

The Project Data Analytics (PDA) Taskforce's work aligns seamlessly with these goals. The PDA Taskforce focuses on harnessing data analytics to improve project delivery across sectors. Their efforts in promoting data-driven decision-making and establishing best practices for data use in projects complement the summit's objectives by fostering a secure and transparent digital environment.

The recent government paper from the Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA) further underscores the importance of AI and data analytics in government project delivery. It outlines strategies for integrating AI to enhance project outcomes, emphasising the need for rigorous data governance and ethical standards.

A key outcome of the AI Seoul Summit was the agreement to form the first international network for AI safety. This network will facilitate global collaboration on AI regulations and safety standards, ensuring that advancements are aligned with international ethical guidelines.

The AI Seoul Summit, endorses initiatives from the PDA Taskforce, the IPA, and the newly established international network for AI safety, sets a precedent for future international AI governance. It highlights the necessity of global collaboration and ethical commitment in navigating the complexities of AI development. The outcomes of this summit should inspire ongoing efforts to ensure that AI's trajectory remains beneficial and secure for all.

Tip of the Week - Visualising Data with ChatGPT

Embracing AI and Financial Automation

Start by selecting GPT-4o as your model in ChatGPT. Then, upload your data file, ensuring no sensitive information is included. Use the expand button to delve into your data. You can ask ChatGPT to generate visualisations, such as charts.

For example, I uploaded a spreadsheet of my favourite albums

Prompt: “Generate a pie chart showing the total units sold by each artist in 2021.”

You can interact with and edit the chart within ChatGPT by clicking the edit button in the top right corner.

Graph of the Week

The graph illustrates that frequent users of generative AI (GenAI) tend to feel more trust and excitement and less uncertainty about the technology compared to the general population. For Generation Z, 30% of frequent GenAI users feel excitement compared to 22% of the total, and 31% feel trust compared to 18% overall. Only 12% feel uncertainty, much lower than the 24% total. Among millennials, 37% of frequent users feel excitement (versus 23% total), and 36% feel trust (versus 18% total), with only 11% feeling uncertainty, compared to 26% overall.

In the construction, real estate, and property industries, this sentiment towards AI could drive greater adoption and innovation. As these sectors increasingly integrate AI for tasks like project management, design optimisation, and market analysis, the trust and excitement of frequent users could lead to more efficient processes, cost savings, and improved decision-making. Lower uncertainty among AI-savvy professionals could facilitate smoother transitions and faster implementation of AI-driven solutions, fostering a more technologically advanced and competitive industry landscape.

Quote of the Week

“Long term….Any job that somebody does will be optional, If you want to do a job as a hobby, you can do a job. But otherwise, AI and robots will provide any goods and services that you want”

Elon Musk” VivaTech conference 24/5/24

This Week's Big Thing in the Industry

Enhancements in ChatGPT's Data Analysis

OpenAI recently announced significant improvements to data analysis capabilities in ChatGPT. These enhancements are set to revolutionise the way data is utilised across various industries, including project delivery, where accurate data analysis is paramount.

Key Enhancements

Improved Data Interpretation: The new updates allow ChatGPT to handle larger datasets more efficiently and accurately. This is crucial for Quantity Surveyors and Project Managers who need to process vast amounts of data quickly to inform decision-making processes.

Advanced Query Handling: ChatGPT can now better understand and execute complex queries. For professionals in project delivery, this means more precise cost estimates, risk assessments, and resource allocation. The ability to ask nuanced questions and receive detailed answers can significantly enhance the planning and execution phases of a project.

Automated Reporting: One of the standout features is the ability to generate comprehensive reports automatically. Project professionals often spend considerable time preparing reports on budget tracking, progress updates, and financial forecasting. ChatGPT can streamline this process, providing clear, data-driven insights with minimal manual intervention.

Application in Project Delivery

For professionals, the ability to analyse and interpret large datasets swiftly means more accurate cost management and financial planning. The enhancements in ChatGPT’s data analysis can help in preparing detailed cost estimates, conducting value engineering, and managing budgets throughout the project lifecycle.

Project Managers will benefit from improved project monitoring and control. Enhanced data interpretation capabilities enable better tracking of project progress against timelines and budgets. Automated reporting tools can provide real-time updates on project status, identify potential issues early, and suggest corrective actions.

Conclusion

The advancements in ChatGPT’s data analysis capabilities are set to transform the way data is leveraged in project delivery. By providing more accurate, efficient, and automated data processing, these improvements can enhance the roles of Quantity Surveyors and Project Managers.

For further details, visit the full article here.

What You Need to Know This Week

Microsoft made several significant AI announcements at this week’s Build conference. The highlights include:

  1. Copilot AI Agents: These autonomous assistants can handle tasks like crafting meeting agendas, processing orders, and replying to emails, positioning Microsoft against Google and OpenAI in the AI assistant race.

  2. Future of AI: Sam Altman and Microsoft's CTO discussed the potential of AI, suggesting that we are far from reaching the limits of AI model capabilities, indicating ongoing rapid advancements.

  3. Advanced Paste in Windows 11: A new feature allowing users to copy and paste across different formats. This includes converting code into various languages and summarising or translating text via AI.

  4. Revamped Microsoft Paint: AI integration allows users to generate images from doodles in real time, with a slider to control AI’s creative input.

  5. Instant Video Translations in Edge: Real-time translations, including dubbing and subtitles for videos on platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn, initially supporting six languages with more to follow.

These innovations underscore Microsoft’s commitment to integrating AI seamlessly into everyday tools and applications, enhancing productivity and user experience.

AI in Construction and Project Delivery

  • The National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) is responding to the increasing importance of digital technology in construction, integrating advanced tools to boost efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Read more here.

  • Contractors are increasingly using AI-powered construction software to achieve sustainability goals. These tools help optimise resources, reduce waste, and enhance project efficiency, contributing to greener construction practices. Discover more here.

  • SpatialGPT, backed by ex-Microsoft executives, has secured £5.1 million to develop AI solutions for the construction industry, aiming to streamline project planning and execution. Find out more here.

  • AI is transforming construction through improved project management, safety, and efficiency. From predictive analytics to autonomous machinery, AI applications are becoming integral to modern practices. Learn more here.

  • Bluebeam has introduced AI-driven tools for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations (AECO) sector, enhancing project collaboration and document management. Read about these innovations here.

  • AI technologies are being used to reduce construction waste, improving sustainability and cost-efficiency. These tools predict and prevent waste, helping projects stay on track and reduce environmental impact. Learn more here.

  • Dubai has launched an AI innovation campus to foster technological advancements in construction, supporting research and development and driving AI adoption. Discover the initiative here.

  • Despite Microsoft's climate pledges, its AI operations have significantly increased its carbon footprint, raising questions about the environmental impact of AI technologies. Read the full report here.

Tech News

  • OpenAI has paused its ChatGPT-4.0 voice feature following backlash over its similarity to Scarlett Johansson's voice, sparking debates on voice cloning ethics. Read more here.

  • Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas discusses how AI is poised to challenge Google’s dominance in search. He highlights AI's potential to revolutionise the way we access and process information. Discover more here.

  • TikTok has introduced a Symphony AI ad generator, aiming to help brands create engaging content effortlessly. This tool leverages AI to automate ad creation, enhancing user experience and brand visibility. Learn more here.

  • OpenAI has secured a licensing deal with the Wall Street Journal to integrate its content into AI models, a move that underscores the growing intersection of AI and journalism. Find out more here.

  • Microsoft has launched the Team Copilot to assist groups and organisations, aiming to streamline workflows and enhance collaboration. This tool is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to integrate AI into daily operations. Read the details here and here.

  • Google’s new AI-driven search results, powered by Gemini, promise to provide more comprehensive and intuitive search experiences, potentially transforming the way we interact with information online. Explore more here.

  • The new ChatGPT desktop app has exceeded expectations with its enhanced features, making AI assistance more accessible and efficient for users. This app offers improved functionality and user experience. Discover how it works here.

  • Apple has announced ten new AI features coming in iOS 18, aiming to enhance user experience through improved personalisation and functionality. These updates reflect Apple’s ongoing commitment to integrating AI into its ecosystem. Learn about the features here.

  • Nvidia has significantly impacted the AI sector with its cutting-edge chips, as evidenced by its recent earnings report. The company posted a remarkable quarterly revenue of $26 billion, marking a 262% increase from the previous year, surpassing all expectations. Previously seen as just another chip developer, Nvidia's fortunes changed dramatically in early 2023 when its GPUs proved essential for training AI models, boosting demand. This success has propelled Nvidia to a market capitalisation of over $2.3 trillion, trailing only Microsoft and Apple. Nvidia’s influence extends beyond tech. The company's performance contributed 2.5 points to the S&P 500's 10.3% growth last year, showcasing its market-moving power, as highlighted by Bloomberg. Nvidia’s success could signal continued investment in AI startups, fostering innovation. However, competitors like AMD, Intel, Groq, and Cerebras are also developing GPUs, though they lag behind Nvidia's rapid advancements, which have seen it double its processing power every six months.

AI Security News

  • OpenAI has disbanded its Superalignment team, which was focused on ensuring AI systems align with human values. The decision raises questions about the future of AI safety and ethics at OpenAI. Read more here and here.

  • Anthropic reflects on its responsible scaling policy, emphasising the importance of cautious and ethical AI development. They stress transparency and public accountability in AI deployment. Learn more here.

  • Britain is expanding its AI Safety Institute to San Francisco, aiming to foster international collaboration on AI safety. This move highlights the UK's commitment to leading global AI safety initiatives. Discover the full story here.

  • Microsoft's new Recall feature has sparked debate over its potential risks and benefits. While it enhances user convenience by retrieving forgotten details, it also raises privacy and security concerns. Explore the feature here.

New Tools in Tech

ElevenLabs' New iPhone App

ElevenLabs has launched a new free iPhone app that reads on-screen text aloud, featuring 11 distinct voices and PDF support. This app enhances accessibility and productivity by allowing users to listen to any text displayed on their screens, including emails, articles, and social media posts.

Key Features:

  • Text-to-Speech: The app transforms written content into spoken words, ideal for multitasking and improving productivity.

  • Voice Variety: With 11 different voices, users can personalise their listening experience.

  • PDF Handling: Users can upload PDFs and have the content read aloud, useful for professionals and students needing to review documents on the go.

  • Accessibility: This tool is particularly beneficial for individuals with visual impairments or reading difficulties, providing essential access to written content.

  • Free Access: By offering these advanced features for free, ElevenLabs promotes inclusivity and broad usability.

This app is a versatile tool for improving daily productivity and accessibility. For more details, visit the full article here.

Podcasts: Must-Subscribe List

AI's Brain Drain - Are We Over or Under Promising?

In this episode of Project Flux podcast, we are joined by Micah Piippo to discuss several pivotal developments in the AI and tech world. The conversation spans from advancements in AI-driven data analysis to the political and leadership upheavals at OpenAI.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • GPT-4O and Data Analysis Upgrades: The episode begins with an in-depth look at GPT-4O and its significant enhancements in data analysis within ChatGPT. The hosts explore how these improvements can revolutionise project management by enabling more precise and efficient data handling, which is crucial for Quantity Surveyors and Project Managers.

  • Political Turmoil and AI Safety at OpenAI: The discussion then shifts to the recent departures of key figures from OpenAI and the collapse of its AI Safety Unit. This segment highlights the potential risks and implications for AI safety and governance in the industry.

  • OpenAI's Deal with Reddit: The hosts examine OpenAI's new partnership with Reddit, analysing the potential benefits and challenges. They discuss how Reddit's vast information pool could enhance AI training while also addressing the difficulties of managing and filtering such a diverse data source.

  • Buildots' AI Tool for Predicting Construction Delays: Micah provides expert insights into Buildots' AI-powered tool designed to forecast construction delays. This tool's ability to predict project timelines accurately could transform project delivery in construction, offering significant benefits to Quantity Surveyors and Project Managers by reducing risks and improving efficiency.

  • Google’s Latest Announcements: Lastly, the episode reviews Google's recent technological announcements. While not as groundbreaking as OpenAI's, Google's advancements hold substantial potential, especially given their extensive software capabilities, which could help level the playing field in the AI market.

  • This episode provides a comprehensive overview of current AI trends and their practical applications, making it essential listening for professionals in project delivery.

Listen to the full episode here.

AI’s Brain Drain: Are we Over or Under Promising? - Project Flux

This week, we sat down with Micah Piippo - Micah is the Scheduling Manager at Intel's Technology Development Construction group, where he excels in delivering projects on time and improving planning practices. Previously, he played a key role at G...

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