Artificial intelligence has become the buzzword on everyone’s lips since OpenAI released ChatGPT to the masses over a year ago. So what effect has it had in Lancashire? In this article, we’ll explore some uses of AI in the Lancashire region as well as the country as a whole.
A Technology For All
Since its introduction and its popularity has grown, AI has been adopted across multiple industries in the UK. AI is helping both business owners win larger shares of the market as well as making the lives of consumers easier too. For example, in the world of online gambling, AI is being used to personalise offerings. Buzz Bingo, a UK online bingo company that offers slots, bingo, jackpots, and other casino games across its portfolio, has teamed up with Future Anthem. This partnership has benefits for the company and the client too. The technology helps the casino to monitor where customers are on their journey and tailor their offerings to them meaning gamers receive a better gameplay experience.
In the supermarket industry, AI is being used to improve stock forecasting, automate the retail experience, and increase the quality of data and statistics. In the case of Tesco, they have created gamified solutions for their Clubcard members.
How is AI being used in Lancashire?
On the development side, Lancaster University has been a key player in aiming to improve patient outcomes through the use of technology in the NHS. They have developed and implemented a plug-in on social media which aimed to increase the number of patients coming forward for breast screening. Initially faced with 24/7 demand for answers, the university staff developed an AI chatbot to help answer questions and provide information for those who used social media.
While on the business side, Zfort Group is a technology company that offers consulting services to those that need them in the Lancashire area. They are well versed in AI models and have worked to develop plug-ins and applications that monitor websites, track SEO, and even create fitness plans.
Government Investment
As part of a wide-reaching plan by the government of the UK, the government has announced that over £1 billion will be released to upskill people across a wide range of areas, including AI. This is the largest investment in the space to date and it is hoped that the money can be invested in students, with a particular focus on the life sciences and healthcare spaces, as well as improving lives. CIO reports that £100 million has also been set aside to improve regulation in the sector as it develops at a fast pace.
At the moment, the future of AI in Lancashire looks bright. According to Seeker, the northern parts of England lead the way in AI interest. Their survey suggests that Manchester holds the most interest in the relatively new technology, but that other cities in the north are also keen. What this says about the future of AI in England is unknown at the moment, but it seems that technology may become a key player in Lancashire in the coming years.
