Jim Goodnight, CEO of SAS, stresses India’s need to build its own large language models. He highlights the opportunities in generative AI while urging caution regarding data privacy and ethical frameworks. He believes a collaborative ecosystem is necessary for success and predicts advancements and job opportunities in AI, emphasizing the importance of public understanding in the field.
In an insightful interview, Jim Goodnight, CEO of SAS—the North Carolina-based firm he co-founded in 1976—spoke about the evolving landscape of AI and the pressing need for India to develop its own large language models (LLMs). While showcasing enthusiasm for generative AI and quantum computing, he urged caution and responsibility in leveraging these technologies to address business risks. “Generative AI could transform analytics, but it’s not a silver bullet,” he emphasized, pointing out that while the hype around LLMs is notable, organizations must stay grounded in their expectations.
Goodnight pointed out the distinctive advantages of generative AI in various fields. From banking to healthcare, LLMs can streamline processes—like expediting the summarization of patient records or extracting information from unstructured risk documents. SAS works with both small and large models to facilitate these tasks. However, he underlined the importance of maintaining a focus on data privacy and security, particularly in regulated sectors. “Stay open-minded, flexible, and cautiously curious,” he advised organizations jumping into the GenAI bandwagon.
Discussing the ongoing US-China competition for technology supremacy, Goodnight noted that platforms like DeepSeek underscore the dynamic landscape of GenAI. According to the SAS global GenAI study, while China has made strides in GenAI usage, the US excels in its detailed implementation. His concern lies in understanding the implications for heavily-regulated industries, emphasizing ethical considerations in technology deployment. “What matters is the governance and alignment with ethical frameworks,” he said.
When asked about India’s potential in AI, Goodnight made a strong case for investment. “Yes, India should invest in building its own LLM,” he asserted. He identified the unique linguistic diversity of India as a key factor that global models can’t cater to adequately. For success, he called for a collaborative ecosystem involving public-private partnerships, high-quality data infrastructure, and local datasets. It’s not just about technology but fostering innovation while ensuring ethical practices.
Looking forward, Goodnight painted a picture of remarkable advancements in AI in the coming years. With generative models already improving in grounding and context-awareness, the industry stands at a thrilling juncture. AI has potential across various sectors, including fraud detection and drug discovery, but broader acceptance relies on making this technology comprehensible to everyday users. “People need to understand what AI is and how it adds value,” he recommended.
Lastly, touching on AI’s impact on employment, Goodnight expressed a balanced view. “AI will displace some roles, yes, but it will also create many new jobs and opportunities.” He underscored that AI could enhance productivity and economic growth, ultimately leading to better-run, more profitable organizations. In manufacturing, for example, AI is responsible for a surge in tech-driven jobs, ranging from data scientists to robotics technicians.
The conversation in Orlando drives home the crucial points—while the evolution of GenAI is exciting, responsible governance and local adaptation are essential as India and other nations forge their paths in the digital future.
In conclusion, Jim Goodnight makes a compelling case for India to invest in its own large language models. He sees generative AI as a transformative force, but cautious and ethical implementation is imperative. As India navigates this space, building a robust ecosystem involving public-private partnerships and focusing on localized needs could lead to significant advancements. The revolution in AI brings both challenges and opportunities, and understanding its complexities will be vital for future success. Goodnight believes that while AI might change the job landscape, it also holds the promise of creating new roles and boosting productivity.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
