Exploring the Evolution of AI: From Automation to Augmentation
We are currently in the era of great technological advancement, where humans are becoming a co-pilot to technology. These advancements are driving a shift towards more human-like interactions and revolutionizing processes through the integration of Gen AI and technology. Gen AI is increasingly reshaping organizations and markets by augmenting human capabilities, democratizing specialized knowledge work, and changing how people approach work. By shifting from automation to augmentation, AI is helping to erase the friction between people and technology and is becoming central to the success of enterprise efforts to reinvent their digital core.
Nandish Madhu, Director – Product Development – Cloud Engineering and Operations, Intuit
Over the past decade, artificial intelligence has advanced at a remarkable pace. Modern systems seamlessly integrate language, vision, audio, and data to provide nuanced insights, facilitating richer and more intuitive human-technology interactions. Artificial intelligence has become ubiquitous, heralding an era of automated mundane tasks, freeing human intellect to concentrate on significant and imaginative endeavors. Cutting-edge generative AI innovations empower businesses to implement virtual assistants and chatbots, automating customer support and offering individualized assistance.
However, thriving in this era requires adaptability, lifelong learning, and critical thinking. As AI amplifies our capabilities, uniquely human skills like creativity, empathy, and strategic decision-making will become paramount. Embracing a growth mindset and continuously upskilling will be essential to navigate the rapid pace of technological change and remain relevant in a world where knowledge is fluid and ever-evolving.
Intuit’s robust data and AI capabilities are foundational to the company’s success as an industry leader in the financial technology sector for our approximately 100 M consumer and small business customers. Our platform delivers 810M AI-driven customer interactions per year, generates 65B machine learning predictions per day, processes more than 25M conversations with natural language processing per year, and runs 2M models in production per day. Through AI, Intuit’s platform harnesses machine learning for decision engines, algorithms, knowledge engineering, compliance code generation, and natural language processing – transforming user experiences. We even recently introduced Intuit’s Generative AI operating system featuring specially trained large language models to address clients’ urgent financial challenges while fostering long-term growth.
Naresh Purohit, Senior Director Sales Engineering, Nutanix
“The recent advancements in the field of AI have been truly remarkable. A recent Nutanix report reveals that as AI continues to gain prominence for businesses, a staggering 90% of organizations are planning to ramp up their investments in supporting AI strategy initiatives. This underscores the growing recognition of AI’s transformative potential and its pivotal role in driving future growth and innovation across industries.
To thrive in this evolving landscape, we must cultivate new skills. Critical thinking and interpreting AI outputs will be paramount. However, we mustn’t forget the human touch – empathy, creativity, and strong communication will be essential for collaborating with intelligent machines.”
Rajesh C Subramaniam, Founder and CEO, embedUR
“What are your thoughts on the AI advancements in the industry so far?
The advent of AI in our daily lives has been nothing short of revolutionary. While the concept itself is old, AI development has recently experienced a remarkable resurgence across various domains, from natural language processing to computer vision and beyond. Greater emphasis on decentralised data management and low-power off-grid computing has birthed a new wave of autonomous ‘Edge AI’ systems that are driving wholesale adoption of AI by both organisations and consumers.
How are advancements in AI facilitating a shift towards more human-like interactions with technology?
As AI systems become autonomous and faster in detecting patterns and making decisions, we’re no longer confined to niche applications; instead, AI systems become robust in their utility, comprehend nuances, adapt faster, and allow for more human-like interactions with technology. This in turn enhances user experiences and drives unprecedented levels of engagement with technology.
In what ways do you believe AI is democratizing specialized knowledge work, enabling broader access to expertise and insights across various industries?
Moreover, AI is democratizing knowledge work by augmenting human capabilities and automating repetitive tasks, thus freeing up time for higher-value activities. Individuals can now use machine learning to tap into reservoirs of information previously accessible only to a select few. Also, an entire ecosystem of products and services serves to accelerate AI implementation and adoption.
From your perspective, what skills and mindsets will be essential for individuals to thrive?
As we navigate this dynamic landscape, adaptability, creativity, and continuous learning will be crucial for individuals to thrive. Moreover, fostering critical thinking skills and cultivating empathy will be essential for staying relevant in the workplace and creating value in an increasingly automated landscape. Lastly, meaningful dialogue on data privacy and the ethical use of AI would not also be amiss in a future shaped by AI advancements.”
Sooraj Balakrishnan, Associate Director and Head of Marketing, Acer India
“In today’s dynamic digital world, Acer recognizes that innovation acts as the driving force propelling endless possibilities forward. From advancements in AI to the realm of cloud computing, technology illuminates our journey, guiding us toward greater connectivity, creativity, and a brighter future. Amidst the challenges we face, Acer places a strong emphasis on sustainability, echoing this sentiment through this year’s theme: ‘School to Startups – Igniting Young Minds to Innovate.’ Acer embarks on an inspiring journey to motivate and empower young minds to embrace technology, cultivating an innovative spirit that resonates from classrooms to professional settings. As we celebrate National Technology Day, let’s reaffirm our dedication to progress, innovation, and the transformative power of technology to instigate positive change.”
Mr Debdoot Mukherjee – Chief Data Scientist, Head of AI and Demand Engineering, Meesho
“On National Technology Day, let’s celebrate India’s tech journey—filled with challenges and triumphs, just like any personal growth story. From startups to e-commerce, technology fuels our progress, reshaping businesses with AI, efficient logistics, and data-driven strategies. At Meesho, technology powers our success, connecting entrepreneurs nationwide. We’re committed to using tech to empower the next generation. As we mark this day, let’s embrace tech’s potential to bridge divides, fuel growth, and propel India forward.”
Dr. Mukesh Gandhi, Founder and CEO, Creative Synergies Group
“AI is a given–and India, along with other countries such as Singapore, the UK and the US are leading with AI integration. With 60% of companies in these regions reporting active AI investments, IT leaders are urged to also reconsider their cloud investments, with over 85% of AI leaders globally looking to enhance their cloud automation over the next year.
In order to make any investment purposeful, it is important to measure it against long-term business needs. Seeing that 62% of larger companies are investing in AI compared to 36% of small businesses, the budget seems to be the primary consideration for AI integration. But comparing it against the long-term business needs is equally important, if not more, and those who cannot jump on the wagon immediately shouldn’t have to miss out.
At Creative Synergies Group, we leverage our digital engineering prowess to steer businesses in the direction that best suits their strategic goals. On this National Technology Day and forward, businesses should feel empowered to invest in AI despite the economic conditions. With strategic digital innovation support, businesses, global or Indian, large or small – have the potential to innovate with AI.”
