The Future of AI in the Geospatial Sector: Insights from Manish Jethwa
As we stand on the cusp of a new year brimming with potential, the technological landscape—especially in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)—is poised for remarkable transformation. Manish Jethwa, the CTO at Ordnance Survey (OS), Great Britain’s national mapping agency, provides an illuminating forecast of what we can expect from these advancements and their implications for the geospatial sector.
Breaking Down Barriers with AI
Jethwa expresses optimism about the forthcoming strides in AI and machine learning, particularly with the advent of Generative AI (Gen AI). He predicts that the integration of large language models (LLMs) with advanced agent technologies will not only execute complex tasks on behalf of users but also diminish existing barriers to interaction. This evolution is particularly significant in the geospatial field, as it will enable smoother translations of natural language into precise data queries, thereby making geospatial datasets more accessible and user-friendly.
Training for Complex Tasks
In addition to the rise of LLMs, Jethwa emphasizes expectations of progress in broader machine learning realms, spurred by increased access to graphics processing units (GPUs) for training models. He states, “At Ordnance Survey (OS), we will harness this capability to train models for specific, complex tasks such as automatic feature extraction from imagery.”
He adds, “With an escalating amount of data being generated automatically, we hope that next year will bring innovative tools and techniques for data validation, ensuring that information can be confidently utilized for its intended purposes.” This focus on quality and risk management is critical as AI tools become more integrated into workflows.
The Ethical Frontier
The rapid evolution of AI also brings an urgent need for ethical considerations in its development and application. Jethwa advocates for a stronger emphasis on ethical AI, urging the creation of systems that are “transparent, fair, and unbiased,” while considering their environmental and societal impacts. This commitment is well-articulated in OS’s Responsible AI Charter, which guides their integration of new technologies.
Furthermore, Jethwa highlights the necessity for workforce development in successfully navigating these transformations. He stresses that organizations must invest in “retraining and upskilling employees to prepare them for the repercussions of AI and digital transformation,” ensuring that in the chase for efficiency, they don’t lose the intrinsic personality and creativity that humans contribute to the workplace.
Embracing Change While Managing Risks
Despite the myriad of possibilities that technological advancements offer, challenges in the digital transformation journey persist. Jethwa points out that issues such as “cultural resistance and rapid successive changes leading to change fatigue” are likely to be ongoing hurdles. He advocates for a balanced approach that carefully weighs the adoption of new technologies against the human elements involved in transformation processes.
As AI increasingly shapes various facets of business—from decision-making processes to risk management—the looming issue of cybersecurity cannot be overlooked. Jethwa warns that the sophistication of cybersecurity threats powered by AI is growing, thus urging companies to formulate comprehensive strategies that encompass everything from data storage to analysis documentation.
The Imperative to Progress
In this ever-evolving landscape, organizations that fail to innovate risk being left behind. Jethwa cautions, “Companies that do not keep up open themselves to risks, such as shifting customer expectations and challenges in attracting and retaining talent.”
He underlines the importance of having a “clear vision of future goals, effective communication of progress, and celebrating milestones” to sustain momentum in digital transformation efforts.
Conclusion: Navigating the Path Ahead
As we embark on a new year filled with promise, the potential of AI and geospatial technology stands poised for transformative impacts. However, utilizing this power comes with the responsibility of ethical practices and retaining the human touch to drive successful innovation. The landscape of 2025 demands vigilance, commitment to responsible practices, and a human-centered approach in all technological endeavours.
(Photos by Annie Spratt and Ordnance Survey)
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Questions & Answers
- What advancements in AI does Manish Jethwa foresee in the coming year?
Jethwa anticipates significant advancements in AI and machine learning, particularly the integration of large language models with more sophisticated agents, enabling complex tasks and better accessibility to geospatial datasets. - Why is ethical development important in AI according to Jethwa?
Ethical development is crucial for creating AI systems that are transparent, fair, and unbiased while considering their environmental and societal impacts, as emphasized in OS’s Responsible AI Charter. - What role does workforce development play in AI integration?
Jethwa believes that retraining and upskilling employees are essential for preparing the workforce for AI and digital transformation impacts, thus preserving human creativity in the workplace. - What challenges does Jethwa identify in digital transformation?
Jethwa notes challenges such as cultural resistance and change fatigue as obstacles that need to be addressed to successfully adopt new technologies. - What risks do companies face if they do not keep pace with technological advancements?
Companies that stagnate risk falling behind in meeting changing customer expectations and may face difficulties in attracting and retaining talent.
This revised article maintains the key points of the original content but structures them into a coherent, engaging format suitable for publication. Each section is clearly delineated with headings, improving readability, and the Q&A section provides an additional layer of engagement for readers.
