
The Real Power of AI: Enhancing Work, Not Replacing Humans
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is often viewed with apprehension, particularly when it comes to job security. However, during a recent presentation at SAS Innovate 2025, Jared Peterson, VP of Platform Engineering at SAS, emphasized a more uplifting vision of AI: as a tool for enhancing productivity and fostering innovation. Peterson’s insights challenge the conventional narrative that AI will supersede human workers, instead highlighting how it can positively reshape the way organizations function.
Innovative Solutions from Real Developer Needs
Innovation is not merely a top-down initiative; it often springs from the ground up. Peterson shared the story of how the SAS® Viya® Workbench emerged from actual developer frustrations. Initially conceived as a solution to streamline cloud-native computing, the workbench exemplifies how listening to developers can lead to meaningful breakthroughs. "Sometimes the best ideas don’t come from the top," Peterson stated, illustrating that those embedded in the work environment frequently identify the most pressing needs and solutions.
SAS Viya Workbench: A Game Changer for Development
The SAS Viya Workbench stands out as a pivotal tool designed for developers, prioritizing ease of collaboration across programming languages like SAS and Python. Peterson recounted how this project nearly faced cancellation but was revived by a single developer's passionate conviction about its potential. This moment underscores a vital point in innovation: persistence in the face of competing priorities often leads to groundbreaking developments.
Data: The Heart of AI Development
Data is indispensable when it comes to AI, serving as the foundation upon which effective algorithms and models are built. Peterson unveiled SAS® Data Maker, an innovative tool focused on synthetic data generation, which is particularly important for sectors like healthcare and finance, where data privacy is paramount. By acquiring Hazy, a company specializing in synthetic data technology, SAS has advanced its ability to provide developers with an extensive reservoir of high-quality data. "It’s like giving developers an endless amount of high-quality data to work with," Peterson remarked, emphasizing its significance in accelerating AI-driven innovation.
Future Insights: Where Is AI Headed?
As AI rapidly evolves, industries must adapt to its transformative potential. Not only do organizations need to embrace these new tools but they also have to develop strategies that leverage AI for sustainable growth. The insights outlined by Peterson pave the way for what the future may hold—an era where AI serves not as a replacement but as an enhancer of human capability and creativity. By fostering an environment that prioritizes real needs and collaboration, businesses can better harness the possibilities of AI.
Empowering Developers: How to Accelerate AI Learning
For adults keen on diving deeper into AI technology, this represents an exciting time. Engaging with resources such as SAS Viya Workbench not only enriches one’s understanding but also equips professionals with the necessary tools to lead in this space. Whether through formal courses or self-directed learning paths, embracing AI science and understanding its development processes can significantly enhance one’s career trajectory.
Conclusion: Embrace the AI Transformation
AI isn't about replacing jobs; rather, it’s about leveraging technology to improve how we work and innovate. With compelling tools like SAS Viya Workbench and the imperative to cultivate data literacy, the future is bright for those ready to explore AI’s potential. By following SAS's lead and prioritizing innovation through real-world needs, organizations and individuals alike can play a pivotal role in shaping a more efficient and dynamic work environment.
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