The evolution of automation has been a driving force behind the changes we have seen in technology over the years. From the days of having to speak to an operator to place a phone call, to being able to ask a virtual assistant to make a call without even touching the phone, the journey of automation has been one of simplifying, speeding up, and making tasks safer for humans. The rise of Generative AI is bringing us to a new era where automation is becoming even more sophisticated, with the potential to revolutionize the way we work.
IBM has been at the forefront of developing generative AI technology, such as great language models (LLM), that can automate various aspects of business operations. From customer service processes to back-office tasks and even physical infrastructure management, IBM’s teams are using these tools to save companies time, money, and streamline their operations.
One area where this technology is making a significant impact is in coding. IBM has introduced next-generation software, Granite code models, that can automate tasks such as code corrections, translations, and updates. Watsonx code assistant for enterprise java applications can summarize and recommend code changes, while IBM Automated Test Builder framework can increase test coverage. These tools are especially beneficial for developers working with languages like Java and Python, as well as legacy languages like COBOL.
In the realm of IT operations, IBM Research has developed tools to automate the collection and analysis of IT health data, making it easier for engineers to diagnose and address problems. AI and generative upgrades have been added to IBM’s IT automation portfolio, improving the efficiency and accuracy of problem-solving tasks. These technologies have been tested and implemented in various companies with positive results.
Automation is also transforming the manufacturing industry, with AI being used to optimize plant operations and improve productivity. IBM’s automated work order intelligence for Maximo, supported by Granite models, can predict faults and save thousands of hours of productivity. Time series models like TTM are enhancing asset monitoring and anomaly detection, paving the way for closed-loop automation in physical systems.
Beyond industrial applications, automation is also simplifying office tasks and workflows. IBM’s orchestrated product, developed through years of research, can automate various business processes, from basic tasks to complex operations. With the introduction of the Watsonx Orchestration Creation Wizard, companies can create customized assistants for specific tasks in different departments. By incorporating generative AI technology, these systems can become more flexible and user-centric, transforming the way tasks are completed in offices.
The future of automation lies in creating systems that can understand and execute tasks based on simple conversational instructions. IBM’s Granite LLM is enabling users to interact with software and machines using natural language, facilitating the completion of tasks in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. As we move towards a more conversational and intuitive form of automation, the potential for increased productivity and efficiency in all areas of work is vast.
Article Source
https://research.ibm.com/blog/automation-think-generative-ai
