In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword but is actively transforming the way South African businesses operate. During a compelling discussion at the recent AI Impact Talk, Riselle Rawthee, an accomplished AI research and development engineer at BBD Software, took the stage to unpack the nuances of AI and its implications for businesses.
Absorbing insights from Rawthee’s talk, it’s evident that comprehension of AI is essential for businesses aiming to thrive in a competitive market. She elucidated the significant distinction between generative AI and agentic AI. Generative models, which are already familiar to many, create content and yield structured results for targeted tasks. In contrast, agentic AI systems, using similar underlying technology, exhibit a greater degree of independence and can engage in complex decision-making processes. This independence is rooted in their ability to exercise critical reasoning, effectively enhancing their application in business environments.
One crucial takeaway from Rawthee’s discussion is the importance of high-quality data in driving effective AI outcomes. Businesses often underestimate this aspect, leaning too heavily on the impressive capabilities of public AI models, only to discover that the adage “garbage in, garbage out” holds true. While prototypes might excel due to clean, well-defined datasets, the reality of enterprise-level work involves navigating through vast and messy data collections—a challenge that requires careful management to ensure reliable AI results.
Interestingly, Rawthee pointed out the shift in the role of engineers in the age of AI. The focus is rapidly transitioning from merely coding to solving intricate problems and aligning AI solutions with key business objectives. This paradigm shift underscores the emerging need for a blend of technical skills and soft skills, such as teamwork and effective communication. Moreover, engineers must now develop strong “prompt engineering” practices to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of AI applications.
For aspiring engineers and business leaders alike, Rawthee’s advice was clear: stay curious, experiment, and remember that the most effective solutions aren’t always the most expensive. Instead, the best solutions are tailored to meet specific problems while aligning with data insights and long-term business goals.
With companies like BBD Software paving the way, it’s exciting to imagine what the future holds for AI in South Africa. The role of AI continues to expand, promising new avenues for innovation and collaboration across industries. As businesses and engineers adapt to this transformative technology, the potential for enhanced productivity and creativity is boundless.
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