Technology changes: the world that we live??

Mayors Taskforce for Jobs hosted Brad Olsen Chief Economist for Informetrics in the district last week and it was wonderful to witness the genuine engagement and opportunities by our community and businesses to connect people-to-people, and explore how rapidly evolving technological changes are shaping our world.

I’m not sure if it is happening in your world but for me, I am constantly challenged by the growing presence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our daily lives.

In this ever-changing world the risk of advancing technology is something we need to stay on top of. Not only because of the advantages to people and organisations, many with a high level of competence to adapt to this changing landscape, but also because of the potential for this technology to be used by those less scrupulous.

I am told that AI will present huge opportunities, but there is no doubt that it will also bring big risks.

How do we learn to navigate the risks and turn around the anxiety that comes with change, and learn to trust what will become the norm for the next generation and the youth of the future?

Over time, as we become more accustomed to embracing this new technology, the age-old adage "where there is a will, there is a way" could guide us. It will be the innate curiosity of the human brain to seek ways to simplify and enhance life that will overcome the fear in the long run.

I know there will be capable and considered readers of this column who will be using the technology with all the skill and adaptability to manage the change but the idea still feels very remote to me.

Like many, I still lean towards traditional methods, however, like acquiring any new skill, increasing familiarity leads to greater insights and a willingness to open our eyes to the benefits of integrating Artificial Intelligence confidently into our world.

It was inspiring to see how many of our Hurunui businesses are utilising innovation in myriad ways to adapt to an evolving business environment. While I, and no doubt others, have yet to increase our familiarity with artificial intelligence, the time when it could be another well-utilised tool in daily business is just around the corner.

We are proud of our Hurunui way, where doing business brings that personal touch and connection, and I was humbled to be able to share that in a small way with Brad. As we embrace new technologies like AI, let us never lose that most valuable thing of all in Hurunui: our connection to each other.