In the first of a two-part episode on the Art of AI podcast, host Jerry Cuomo is joined by Bill Higgins, IBM Distinguished Engineer and VP for watsonx platform engineering, for a exploration of artificial intelligence's history and evolution. This episode, titled "The Road to watsonx," explores the significant milestones of AI, from the Dartmouth Conference to the latest advancements, with a particular focus on the development of IBM Watson.

Throughout the episode, Jerry and Bill examine the transformation of AI from its early days to its current state, underscoring IBM's pivotal role in this journey. The discussion centers around the challenges and achievements in evolving Watson from a game-show winner to a powerful business tool, while also touching on IBM's internal cultural and technological transformations. Bill also sheds light on the cultural and technological transformations within IBM, emphasizing the importance of combining technology upgrades with cultural shifts.

This series offers a unique blend of history, personal stories, and forward-looking perspectives in AI. Listen in for an intriguing and thought-provoking conversation that's not just about technology, but also about the people and culture driving it forward.

Key Takeaways:

1. IBM Watson's Evolution: Chronicling its journey from a game show winner to an essential tool in business and technology applications.
2. Milestones in AI History: A review of significant moments and breakthroughs in AI, from its early inception to contemporary innovations.
3. IBM's Impact on AI: Examining IBM's consistent influence and contributions to the development and growth of artificial intelligence.
4. Balancing Tech and Culture: Discussing the importance of aligning technological advancements with organizational cultural changes for effective innovation.
5. The Future of AI: An insightful look at what lies ahead for AI, exploring potential developments and the challenges that may arise.

Additional resources:

• IBM Watson: Final Jeopardy! and the Future of Watson - Watch IBM Watson's Jeopardy! win and hear insights on its future applications from the team and contestants. Watch Here
• How InnerSource is transforming IBM's Watson - Bill Higgins (IBM) - IS Summit 22 - Bill Higgins discusses transforming Watson for business use and the role of inner source in this evolution. Watch Here
• IBM Watson to watsonx - Explore the journey of IBM Watson from defeating Jeopardy! champions to evolving into watsonx for business solutions. Read More

* Coverart was created with the assistance of DALL·E 2 by OpenAI.** Music for the podcast created by Mind The Gap Band - Cox, Cuomo, Haberkorn, Martin, Mosakowski, and Rodriguez