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The Indianapolis-based collaborative initiative AnalytiXIN is trying to spur productive conversations around artificial intelligence and other high-tech topics.
The effort, which AnalytiXIN is calling “communities of practice,” consists of a series of free, topic-focused online discussion groups where participants can connect with one another, share information and ask questions.
AnalytiXIN is a collaborative effort between major Indiana corporations, industry groups and academic institutions to share information on data sciences, including digital, AI and advanced analytic capabilities. Its members include Eli Lilly and Co., Indiana University Health, Cummins Inc., Purdue University and the Energy Systems Network.
AnalytiXIN launched the first three communities of practice in April, with a second round of gatherings in June. A third round launches next week: a “Data Visualization” gathering July 18, an “AI and Upskilling” event July 22, and “The Future of the AI Workforce” July 24. All the gatherings occur from noon to 1 p.m.
These aren’t training classes, says Darshan Shah, the executive vice president of data and AnalytiXIN at the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership. Rather, the communities of practice exist to bring people together to discuss and learn from one another—especially around evolving topics such as AI.
“Anyone that says that they know what they’re talking about when it comes to AI is not being truthful because this arena is moving so fast,” Shah said. “And even if you think you know what’s going on today, you won’t know two months from now, which is why these conversations are so important.”
The discussions are open to anyone who’s interested—and depending on the topic, that could include people from backgrounds such as legal, human resources and administration in sectors including government, private industry and community groups.
To date, close to 400 people have registered to attend at least one session, with attendance averaging between 50 and 80 people per session, Shah said.
In addition to the discussion groups launching this month, AnalytiXIN is also offering communities of practice on several other topics: data ethics and privacy; data literacy and data-driven decision making; AI and machine learning; generative AI tools; and building responsible AI policies.
The intent, Shah said, is to hold a communities of practice discussion group each week, with any given topic offered about once every other month.
AnalytiXIN also intends to be flexible in adding, dropping or altering topics depending on the interest and needs of participants over time.
“I don’t have a crystal ball, but I think the conversations are just going to continue to evolve as people learn more,” Shah said. “There’s always going to be a conversation to be had. Do I think the topics are going to be the same a year from now? Good grief, no! No chance of that.”
The Central Indiana Corporate Partnership launched AnalytiXIN in September 2020. The initiative aims to advance Indiana’s innovation in data sciences, including artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics.
Additional details and registration information about upcoming communities of practice sessions can be found here.
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