More initiative and readjustment are needed. It is indeed true that over the last 5-10 years, the focus in AI research has clearly shifted towards machine learning, deep learning and neural networks. In these areas, significant progress can be observed. However, the technologies described as “old news” in the Federal Government’s strategic paper actually represent the current state of affairs – everything that goes beyond is still in its research phase. Even though the full potential may not have been tapped in this case, every step contributing to an increased public awareness of artificial intelligence is needed and welcome. However, even more important than public subsidies and support is an active involvement of the companies themselves. This would include the acknowledgement that apart from appropriate compensation, AI experts require a chance to engage in challenging tasks, the freedom to try out new ways and solutions and the perspective to contribute to an exciting ongoing process. In this context, it is necessary to explore topics and ideas not covered by mainstream research. Purely financial incentives have lost their motivational power in the same way as public subsidies. What matters more is providing access to the right challenges that are up to par with the current state of development. This would provide promising and inquiring talents with a platform for their scientific curiosity in Germany. This is where companies – and in particular small and agile companies – must create incentives and act as drivers of innovation. Apart from that, it would of course still be welcome if the German Government based its future decisions and actions on the current state of research.

Source: t3n