New Documentary Shows How The North East Is Harnessing Data And AI To Change The World

In a time where data is one of the most valuable commodities in the world and artificial intelligence is dominating conversation around tech, Newcastle Helix is exploring the possibilities of data and AI with the launch of a brand new documentary.

“The thing about AI is, why would you start with an empty sheet of paper?" - Dawn Musgrave, NIHR Innovation Observatory

The Future of Data and AI is the final installment in a groundbreaking series of films from the North East’s Innovation District, featuring experts at some of the UK’s most prestigious organisations - many of whom are based right here at Newcastle Helix. The film takes a closer look at the realities, possibilities and challenges of using data and AI for businesses and society as a whole.

"Data is all around us. It's all the information that's generated right across the world in lots of different forms. So it can include emails, spreadsheets, the photos we take on our mobile phones, the data coming from sensors when we're in hospital. Everything is data." - Prof. Paul Watson, NICD

The Innovation District is home to UK-leading organisations: the National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD), the EPSRC National Edge AI Hub and the NIHR Innovation Observatory. In this unique ecosystem, they work alongside a range of SMEs with data at their core, like Grid Smart Cities.

The film also shares insights on the changing attitudes and real-life applications of AI and data from a range of experts at organisations like Finpact, Traction Industries, How Might We Community, PolyBox Solutions and National Edge AI Hub for Real Data.

The emergence of data and AI is one that many industries are still working out how to navigate. However, Newcastle Helix is home to a wealth of information and expertise, with regional organisations leading the way in making sense of what is quickly becoming known as the fourth industrial revolution.

"If you know what outcome you want, you know what data to search for, and then you look at how to rationalise that data and deliver a positive intervention and a positive outcome." - Neil Herron, Grid Smarter Cities

Rather than being dazzled by the newness of the technology or being afraid of its capabilities, these experts understand the importance of analysis, consideration and, most importantly, humanity, when it comes to harnessing data and AI for growth and change for good.

“AI cannot replace human judgment or solve every problem that we can ever dream of. Instead, it augments our decision-making power and requires careful consideration, validation, calibration, and oversight of human beings all the time. AI can only work when humans are in the loop.” - Rajiv Ranjan, National Edge AI Hub

The Future of Data and AI is part of a wider series of films aiming to highlight the innovation and business growth taking place at Newcastle Helix, a growing community of businesses and research facilities all seeking to drive forward the economy of the North East and beyond.

“Newcastle Helix is an Innovation District – we can call ourselves that because we have so many brilliant people and organisations working at the leading edge of understanding the social and commercial capabilities in their fields. The Newcastle Helix team have put together a brilliant short film to help us all understand the world of Data and AI. Sit back and grab your popcorn!” - John Seager, Estates Director, Newcastle Helix

Newcastle Helix presents... The Future of Data and AI is available to stream free now on our YouTube channel: