Podcast

AI-Powered innovation with George Young

Written by Sopheon | August 26, 2024

In this week's episode, we explore AI-powered innovation and its transformative effects across various industries. Together with George Young, we dismantle the limitations and potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning in predicting outcomes. George explains these technologies' ongoing disruptions, especially within the consumer packaged goods sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, and underscores the rising importance of sustainability in modern manufacturing.

George Young is a seasoned expert in digital innovation. Twenty years ago, he co-founded Calypso and now serves as the vice president of global digital services at Rockwell Automation. George is deeply involved in digital transformations that address India's rapid infrastructure expansion. With an illustrious career stretching from organic chemistry and consulting to production and business management, George remains passionate about problem-solving and applying cutting-edge digital tools. His pivotal role in integrating digital information into physical products has significantly advanced consumer and product experiences.

"Introducing minimum viable products and emphasizing the importance of iterative feedback over waiting for perfection is fundamental to successful innovation." - George Young

Today on Innovation Talks:

  • Limitations of AI and ML: George emphasizes that these technologies cannot predict outcomes without understanding the root causes.
  • COVID-19 Disruptions: Insights into how the pandemic challenged the consumer packaged goods sector and prompted innovations.
  • Digital Information in Physical Products: George illustrates digital tech integration in products like refrigerators and tires for improved consumer experiences.
  • Generative AI in Innovation: Discussion on how AI can automate tasks like writing specifications, freeing time for more complex work.
  • Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: The value of combining different fields of expertise to gain a competitive edge in product development.
  • Sustainability and Worker Safety: Emphasizing these aspects can lower production costs and increase overall efficiency.
  • Minimum Viable Products: Launching MVPs and continually seeking feedback to refine and perfect products is important.
  • AI/ML for Portfolio Management: Using AI and machine learning to predict project cycle time and success rates, thereby enhancing portfolio management.

Resources Mentioned:

13 Steps to Mindful Consulting: George Young's book based on Buddhist principles for a balanced and productive professional life.

Connect with George Young:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgehyoung/

Email: george.young@rockwellautomation.com

This podcast is brought to you by Sopheon

Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Innovation Talks. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.

 Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | Stitcher | Spotify | iHeart

 Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more listeners like you. 

For additional information about new product development or corporate innovation, sign up for Sopheon’s monthly newsletter, where we share news and industry best practices! The fastest way to do this is to go to sopheon.com and click here.