Day Three at SXSW Sydney: A Glimpse into the Future

Day three of SXSW Sydney Tech and Innovation was full of insights and entertainment, offering a window into the future of technology and its impact on various industries. Here are the key takeaways and highlights from the sessions that caught my attention.

Session 1: Australia's Future as a Tech Powerhouse

Although I missed out on Noelle Russell's session due to the overwhelming turnout, I found myself at the Pyrmont Theatre for three consecutive sessions. Choosing a seat down near the front, I settled in for the journey.

This first session explored the exciting possibilities of Australia becoming a tech powerhouse by 2050. One notable discussion point was the panel's picks for the 'Greatest Australian Inventions by 2050,' which included quantum computers and the transition to net zero emissions. These innovations are intricately connected, showcasing the potential for Australia to lead in both technological advancements and sustainable practices.

Session 2: AI Fluency: What's Coming for My Job?

The second session delved into the realm of AI and its implications for the workforce. Kicking off with a humorous depiction of the history of AI, via the medium of cats… the phrase "average catness" did actually help explain how large language models in an accessible way – hats off to Sandra Peter and Kair Riemer from the University of Sydney for that one.

Also on stage for a panel discussion were Rae Johnston and Kellie Nuttall. Key insights emerged during this discussion:

• Emerging technology should be used to pioneer new endeavours, not merely replicate existing processes differently.

• There are virtually infinite use cases for AI, but the "human in the loop" to verify and improve outcomes is going to remain essential

• AI can assist, create, and explore, transforming various industries.

Regarding the impact of AI on jobs, it was emphasised that AI is adept at automating repetitive, pattern-based tasks, which will significantly alter certain professions. For instance:

• In the field of medicine, AI can assist with diagnostics and predictive health.

• Lawyers may see changes in standard agreements and patterned legal work, but human oversight remains crucial.

• Consultants can enhance their work by leveraging AI to accelerate processes and improve quality.

• In journalism, a lot of current work can be replaced – but there will be a distinction drawn between content – which can be generated by machines – and insight, which cannot.

The challenge lies in how industries can disrupt themselves and evolve. Imagine we are currently caterpillars – we need to use AI to transform in to butterflies, not mechanical caterpillars.

Regarding the future workday, it was noted that AI can be a valuable tool in tasks requiring heavily patterned output, potentially saving hours each week. However, the human touch is vital for fine-tuning AI models, understanding the value they bring, and redesigning jobs to maximise their potential. No need to become an AI expert however; instead, become an expert in your business, identifying pain points that AI can help address – then bring in someone who can help you implement that.

Session 3: Charlie Brooker

Heading into the afternoon, things took a lighter turn with an entertaining hour of storytelling by Charlie Brooker. His natural pessimism is the driver for the doom and gloom in Black Mirror – I do think the cautious voices play an important part in the conversation as we move into the unknown