The maritime industry stands at a technological crossroads. While artificial intelligence has been discussed for years, recent advances in AI technology - particularly transformers and generative AI - are creating opportunities that simply weren't possible with previous generations of AI solutions.
So said Danilo McGarry, Global AI thought leader and expert, at OrbitMI FLOW.
What's different now? Traditional AI required massive amounts of clean, structured data to function effectively. For instance, teaching a system to understand a basic Non-Disclosure Agreement once required tagging 10,000 example documents. In an industry where data standardization remains a challenge, this requirement created a significant barrier to adoption.
Today's AI systems, particularly those using transformer architecture, can work with messy, inconsistent data - a game-changer for maritime applications. These systems can effectively:
This capability is particularly relevant for maritime operations, where data comes from multiple sources, in varying formats, and with different update frequencies. New AI systems can make sense of this data mosaic without requiring expensive standardization efforts or perfect data quality.
The implications for maritime operations are significant. Rather than spending millions on data cleanup projects, companies can deploy AI solutions that work with existing data structures. This approach dramatically reduces implementation costs and accelerates the path to value.
However, this doesn't mean maritime companies should rush to implement every available AI solution. The key is identifying specific, high-value use cases where AI can deliver immediate benefits. These might include:
As Danilo noted, "We need to move beyond viewing AI as magic and start seeing it as a practical tool for solving specific business problems."
Looking ahead, the maritime industry's challenge isn't just about adopting AI - it's about adopting it strategically. Companies that understand both the capabilities and limitations of modern AI systems will be best positioned to leverage this technology for competitive advantage.
At OrbitMI, we use AI throughout our platform including in how we improve and curate data.
To watch Danilo McGarry's full presentation from OrbitMI Flow 2024, click here.
