Artificial intelligence: What it is, how it works and why it matters (2024)

Understanding the basics: What is artificial intelligence?

At its core, AI refers to a machine or computer system’s ability to perform tasks that would typically require human intelligence. It involves programming systems to analyse data, learn from experiences, and make smart decisions – guided by human input. The most familiar form of AI is virtual assistants like Siri or Alexa, but there are many iterations of the technology.

AI has the potential to revolutionize various industries by enabling machines to solve complex problems and think intuitively, going beyond mere automation. This encompasses various subfields and technologies, such as machine learning and natural language processing.

Uncover more with our in-depth guide on what is artificial intelligence.

Building a responsible artificial intelligence

With an ability to synthesize, analyse and act on enormous amounts of data in seconds, artificial intelligence is extremely powerful. As with any powerful technology, it is crucial we implement it responsibly to maximize on its potential while minimizing negative impacts.

For example, if trained using unscrutinized data, AI can replicate harmful biases about race, religion, upbringing or other human characteristics. This could be potentially disastrous if embedded in artificial intelligence used in health, recruitment, law or other human-centred applications.

Another of the key ethical concerns surrounding AI is privacy. With AI systems collecting vast amounts of data from databases worldwide, there is a need to ensure that personal information is protected and used responsibly. For example, facial recognition technology, often used in security systems or social media platforms, raises questions about consent and potential misuse.

Ensuring the responsible development of AI is crucial for its safe, trustworthy and ethical advancement. But how can transparency and explainability be addressed in the context of responsible AI? These concepts are discussed in detail in our article on building a responsible artificial intelligence.

What is machine learning?

At its core, machine learning refers to the ability of a computer system to learn from data without being explicitly programmed. One example is spam filtering in emails. By detecting similar patterns in spam messages, email platforms can learn what messages are useful, and what should be kept out of the inbox.

So how does machine learning work? It starts with data. Lots of it. Machine learning algorithms are trained on huge datasets which they learn to analyse to identify patterns, relationships and trends. These patterns can then be used to make predictions or decisions on new, unseen data.

There are remarkable benefits and applications of machine learning in our daily lives. You can find everything you need to know from our article “What is machine learning?”.

What is deep learning?

Deep learning and machine learning are sometimes used interchangeably, but there is a difference.

Deep learning is a type of machine learning. However, deep learning can analyse more types of information and perform more complex operations. The process behind deep learning is inspired by the structure and function of the human brain – specifically the way neurons are connected and work together to process information. This allows it to make more nuanced and in-depth predictions from data.

For example, in basic machine learning, a computer could learn to recognize birds in pictures. Trained on pictures of birds and other animals or objects, the machine learns to distinguish between them by being exposed to unique avian features such as wings and beaks.

Deep learning takes this a step further. Staying with the bird example, deep learning might learn to recognize not just basic bird features, but also intricate details like feather patterns, making it more accurate in identifying birds and even able to separate eagles from pigeons.

Want to dive deeper into deep learning and its applications? Get the lowdown on what is deep learning.

What is natural language processing?

Natural language processing (NLP) is a field of artificial intelligence that focuses on enabling computers to understand and interact with human language.

NLP involves a wide range of technologies that allow computers to understand the structure and meaning of human language. It encompasses tasks like speech recognition, natural language understanding, and natural language generation.

By analysing and interpreting language, NLP enables computers to extract useful information, answer questions, and carry on conversations. For example, virtual assistants like Alexa can understand and provide information about the temperature outside, the news headlines or the average weight of an orca whale.

Want to know more? Join us as we delve into what is natural language processing and its applications.

What are neural networks and how do they work?

Imagine the human brain: a web of billions of neurons, receiving information from the external world, sending that information to other parts of the brain, synthesizing what it means based on past experiences, and communicating a reaction in response.

Artificial neural networks are mathematical models that enable deep learning. At their core, they are an imitation of the human brain. Made up of layers of interconnected nodes – called artificial neurons or perceptrons – each artificial neuron takes in inputs, performs calculations and generates an output. These outputs are then passed on to the next layer of perceptrons, creating a hierarchical structure.

The power of neural networks lies in their ability to learn and recognize patterns in data. Intrigued about neural networks and how they are being used today? Read more in our article “What are neural networks?”.

What is an AI management system?

An AI management system is like the brains behind how an organization handles its AI projects. It’s all about setting up rules and methods to make sure AI is used responsibly and effectively. This system helps manage everything from assessing risks to putting AI into action in a responsible way.

Think of it as a roadmap for using AI wisely as the technology evolves. An AI management framework sets out a structured way for managing the risks and opportunities associated with AI. It covers key components such as transparency, explainability and autonomy, giving organizations clear directions on how to use AI in line with evolving regulations (e.g. EU AI Act).

With responsible management and oversight, AI can fulfil its potential as a hugely positive technological development.

Keen to know more? Read the latest in our article “What is an AI management system?”.

Standards and artificial intelligence

ISO’s mission is to establish globally recognized standards across various industries, and AI is no exception.

International Standards for artificial intelligence provide a framework to guide the responsible and ethical use of AI technologies. These standards cover areas such as privacy, bias, transparency and accountability. By adhering to these standards, organizations can work to ensure that their AI systems are fair, transparent, and uphold ethical principles.

One example of International Standard in the AI field is ISO/IEC 23894, which focuses on the management of risk in AI systems. This standard aims to ensure that AI algorithms and models are understandable and can be audited for bias and fairness, thereby building trust and confidence in AI systems.

• ISO/IEC 42001:2023AI management systems

• ISO/IEC 23894:2023AI – Guidance on risk management

• ISO/IEC 23053:2022Framework for AI systems using machine learning

ISO standards also address the interoperability and compatibility of AI systems, ensuring that AI technologies can work seamlessly together and exchange data effectively. This is especially important as AI becomes more integrated into various industries and applications.

As the development and adoption of AI continues to accelerate, developing rigorous standards will be key to ensuring artificial intelligence becomes a technology for good.