AI is a Team Sport: A Confluence of Diverse Technical and Soft Skills are Crucial for Success

BY SCOTT M. GRAFFIUS | ScottGraffius.com

Scott M Graffius - AI -AI is a Team Sport- A Confluence of Diverse Technical and Soft Skills are Crucial for Success



Select here to download this article as a PDF.

This article covers the significance of well-rounded AI teams, including how both soft and technical skills are critical and fuel success. It’s informed by Graffius' work on AI projects as well as research and coverage from DARPA, Exceptional Agility, IBM, IEEE, Intel, MIT, Microsoft, Nvidia, Samsung, Software Engineering Institute, Stanford University, United States Artificial Intelligence Institute, and others (all listed in the bibliography section of this article).


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Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force across a growing number of industries, revolutionizing how we live, work, and interact. From autonomous vehicles and virtual assistants to personalized recommendations and medical diagnoses, AI systems have become integral to our daily lives. Behind these cutting-edge, life-changing solutions are AI teams that possess a combination of soft skills—also known as core skills, interpersonal skills, people skills, power skills, transferable skills, or transversal skills—and technical expertise.

This article highlights the synergy between soft skills and technical skills in the world of AI. While technical skills provide the general foundation for AI development, it’s the soft skills that elevate AI projects to new heights. From effective communication and critical thinking to leadership and teamwork, soft skills play a pivotal role in translating technical knowledge and capabilities into real-world applications.

The thesis of this article is that the successful development and application of AI requires a combination of soft skills and technical expertise. Technical competencies alone are not enough. Rather, it’s the combination and integration of soft and technical skills that truly unlocks the power of AI.

Next, this article focuses on the importance of soft skills in the AI landscape, highlighting how they complement and enhance technical abilities. The collaboration between these skill sets drives AI innovation.

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Understanding Soft Skills in AI Teams

In the realm of AI, technical expertise often takes center stage. However, soft skills advance the successful outcomes of AI projects, as they facilitate effective communication, foster collaboration, and promote critical thinking. Soft skills are powerful facilitators of success.

Soft skills encompass a range of interpersonal and cognitive abilities that enable teams to work harmoniously, adapt to evolving challenges, and solve complex problems. In the AI landscape, where multidisciplinary teams come together to create innovative solutions, these soft skills are essential.

Effective communication stands at the forefront of soft skills in AI. AI teams must articulate complex technical concepts in a manner that is understandable to diverse stakeholders, including non-technical staff and internal or external customers/users. Clear communication promotes collaboration and ensures alignment of purpose and objectives throughout the AI development lifecycle.

Soft skills such as problem-solving and critical thinking are vital as well. AI teams frequently encounter multifaceted challenges, and it is through these soft skills that teams can identify potential bottlenecks, navigate complexities, and devise innovative solutions. By leveraging critical thinking, AI team members can evaluate different approaches, consider ethical implications, and make informed decisions that shape the development and application of AI systems.

Leadership and teamwork skills are also paramount. AI projects involve team members from diverse backgrounds, including data scientists, engineers, domain experts, designers, and others. Effective leadership enables the coordination of efforts and guides the project towards success. Similarly, teamwork skills foster an environment of trust and respect, promoting synergy among team members and enhancing overall productivity.

Recognizing the importance of soft skills in AI is crucial for fostering a balanced and effective team dynamic. It ensures that AI teams possess the interpersonal and cognitive abilities necessary to bring AI projects to fruition. The integration of soft skills alongside technical expertise sets the stage for a cohesive team capable of tackling complex AI challenges with agility and innovation.

The role of technical skills—including how they intersect with soft skills to create a powerful combination that drives success—are covered next.

The Role of Technical Skills in AI Teams

Technical skills provide the tools and knowledge required to design, build, and implement AI systems. This section explores the role that technical skills play in AI and their specific applications in various stages of AI projects.

  • Programming Languages and Algorithms: Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, or R is essential. These languages enable team members to write efficient code, manipulate and analyze data, and implement machine learning algorithms. Understanding algorithms, from classic ones like linear regression to cutting-edge deep learning models, empowers AI professionals to leverage mathematical principles and statistical techniques to train and optimize AI systems.
  • Data Analysis and Management: AI relies on data, making data analysis and management skills crucial. AI team members need to be adept at collecting, cleaning, and preprocessing data, ensuring its quality and relevance. They must possess the knowledge of statistical methods, data visualization techniques, and data engineering practices to extract insights from complex datasets and prepare them for AI model training.
  • Machine Learning and Neural Networks: Technical skills in machine learning are at the heart of AI systems. Understanding machine learning algorithms, such as decision trees, support vector machines, or convolutional neural networks, enables AI team members to create models that can learn from data and make intelligent predictions or decisions. Expertise in neural networks and deep learning architectures equips professionals with the ability to develop complex models capable of handling tasks like image recognition, natural language processing, and reinforcement learning.
  • AI Frameworks and Tools: Proficiency in AI frameworks and tools (such as TensorFlow, Keras, PyTorch, Caffe, Scikit-learn, and others) are essential for building AI systems efficiently. These frameworks provide pre-built modules, libraries, and APIs that simplify the implementation of AI algorithms and models. Technical skills in utilizing these tools effectively enable AI team members to accelerate the development process, streamline model training, and optimize system performance.
  • Domain Knowledge and Application-Specific Skills: Technical skills also encompass domain knowledge and application-specific expertise. Understanding the nuances of the industry or problem domain in which AI is being applied allows professionals to tailor AI solutions to meet specific requirements. For example, healthcare-focused AI projects may require knowledge of medical terminologies and regulatory considerations, while AI solutions for financial services may demand expertise in risk assessment and fraud detection.

Technical skills are essential for AI projects. They enable team members to translate concepts, theories, and algorithms into practical applications. However, technical skills alone are not sufficient for success. The collaborative nature of AI development and the need for a well-rounded AI team—including the synergy between technical skills and soft skills—is covered next.

The Power of Synergy: Soft Skills and Technical Skills in AI Teams

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The convergence of soft skills and technical skills is where true innovation and breakthroughs occur. The successful development and application of AI systems rely not only on technical expertise but also on the harmonious integration of soft skills. Here’s some examples of the power of synergy between these skill sets, including how they work together to drive AI advancement:

  • Effective Communication and Technical Expertise: Communication bridges the gap between AI professionals and others who may not possess technical backgrounds. AI experts with strong communication skills can articulate complex technical concepts in plain English, ensuring that everyone involved understands the goals, challenges, and progress of the project. By effectively conveying ideas, AI professionals foster collaboration, gather valuable insights, and create a shared vision for AI initiatives.
  • Collaboration and Problem-Solving: Collaboration is at the core of AI development, and soft skills such as teamwork, empathy, and active listening facilitate effective collaboration among diverse team members. AI teams with strong collaboration skills can effectively pool their technical expertise, brainstorm ideas, and solve complex problems together. By leveraging their collective intelligence and diverse perspectives, AI teams can overcome challenges, refine AI models, and optimize the performance of AI solutions.
  • Critical Thinking and Technical Innovation: Critical thinking, coupled with technical expertise, leads to innovative AI solutions. AI professionals with strong critical thinking skills can evaluate different approaches, challenge assumptions, and identify potential shortcomings or biases in AI models. They can think creatively to address issues such as data biases or fairness concerns, ensuring that AI systems are developed responsibly and ethically.
  • Leadership and Team Empowerment: Effective leadership in AI projects involves establishing and maintaining a collaborative and inclusive environment, empowering team members, and harnessing their full potential. AI leaders with exceptional interpersonal abilities can inspire and motivate their team, foster a culture of continuous learning, and provide guidance in navigating complex technical challenges. They encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, respect diverse perspectives, and drive the team towards achieving AI objectives.

The synergy between soft skills and technical skills is the catalyst that drives AI projects towards success. It enables AI teams to go beyond technical expertise and develop AI systems that address real-world problems effectively. By embracing a holistic approach that values both soft skills and technical skills, organizations can foster an environment where AI thrives, resulting in innovative solutions that have a positive impact on society.

Strategies for developing and nurturing soft skills are covered next.

Developing and Advancing Soft Skills in AI Teams

AI teams need soft skills to be successful. Organizations and teams should prioritize the development and advancement of these skills. Here are some strategies to enhance soft skills and foster a well-rounded AI workforce:

  • Training Programs and Workshops: Implement specialized training programs and workshops focused on enhancing soft skills. Offer courses in effective communication, leadership (including how to navigate the phases of team development), problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration. These programs can provide AI professionals with the necessary tools and techniques to effectively apply soft skills in their work.
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: Encourage interdisciplinary collaboration by creating opportunities for AI team members to work alongside experts from diverse fields such as psychology, design, ethics, and business. This collaboration allows for cross-pollination of ideas, encourages different perspectives, and broadens the skill set of AI teams. Foster a culture of knowledge sharing, where professionals can learn from each other and leverage their collective experiences and expertise.
  • Real-World Project Engagement: Provide AI team members with opportunities to work on (other) real-world projects, allowing them to apply their soft skills in practical scenarios. Engaging in projects that involve interaction with clients, end-users, and stakeholders helps AI team members develop effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
  • Continuous Learning and Professional Development: Encourage AI team members to engage in continuous learning and professional development activities. This can include attending conferences, participating in webinars, reading industry publications, and pursuing certifications in relevant areas. Promote a growth mindset among AI team members, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and staying current with the latest developments in both technical and soft skills domains.
  • Mentorship and Coaching: Establish mentorship and coaching programs where experienced AI professionals guide and support individuals with less experience. Mentors can provide valuable insights, share their experiences, and offer guidance on developing skills. Regular feedback and coaching sessions help AI professionals identify areas for improvement and provide targeted development opportunities.

By implementing these strategies, organizations can cultivate a workforce that excels not only in technical skills but also in the essential soft skills required for AI success. Nurturing well-rounded AI professionals creates a collaborative and adaptive environment, where AI teams can effectively address complex challenges, drive innovation, and deliver impactful solutions.

The next section wraps up this exploration.

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Conclusion


The successful development and application of AI systems rely on the synergy between soft skills and technical skills. While technical expertise forms the foundation, it's the integration of soft skills that elevates AI projects to new heights. Effective communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and leadership are among the key soft skills that enable AI teams to excel.

This article explored the significance of soft skills in AI, emphasizing their role in fostering effective teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation. It also acknowledged the indispensable role of technical skills in AI development, including programming languages, algorithms, data analysis, domain knowledge, and more.

Organizations can create well-rounded AI teams with a holistic set of abilities by embracing the power of synergy between soft skills and technical skills. AI team members with strong soft skills can effectively communicate their ideas, collaborate seamlessly, think critically, and provide leadership that empowers their teams.

To advance soft skills among AI professionals, organizations should invest in training programs, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, encourage continuous learning, and foster mentorship and coaching relationships. These efforts will help AI professionals develop the interpersonal and cognitive abilities necessary to thrive in the dynamic and collaborative AI landscape.

AI is a team sport that thrives on the confluence of soft skills and technical skills. By recognizing and embracing this synergy, organizations can unlock the full potential of AI, delivering innovative solutions that address real-world challenges and have a positive impact on the world.

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References/Sources

All of the supplied links were functional when this article was published.

  • Graffius, Scott M. (2023, April 26). The Science of High-Performance Teams [Presentation]. Talk delivered at the DevOps Institute’s SKILup Day 2023 Conference. Digital Object Identifier (DOI): 10.13140/RG.2.2.15888.28169. DOI link: https://dx.doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.15888.28169.
  • Graffius, Scott M. (2023, January 9). Use the Phases of Team Development (Based on Bruce W. Tuckman's Model of Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, and Adjourning) to Help Teams Grow and Advance: 2023 Update. Available at: https://scottgraffius.com. Digital Object Identifier (DOI): 10.13140/RG.2.2.10720.35846. DOI link: https://dx.doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.10720.35846.
  • Graffius, Scott M. (2022, May 13). Want Happier and More Productive DevOps Teams? [Presentation]. Talk delivered at DevOpsDays Geneva, Switzerland 2022 Conference. Digital Object Identifier (DOI): 10.13140/RG.2.2.22252.85127. DOI link: https://dx.doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.22252.85127.
  • Graffius, Scott M. (2021, October 5). Navigate the Phases of Team Development with Speed and Agility for Happier and More Productive Teams [Presentation]. Talk delivered at the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE Day 2021 Conference. Digital Object Identifier (DOI): 10.13140/RG.2.2.20055.19365. DOI link: https://dx.doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.20055.19365.

Scott_M_Graffius_-_Blog_Spacer_-_v23111107_-_Cite

How to Cite This Article

Graffius, Scott M. (2023, May 1). AI is a Team Sport: A Confluence of Diverse Technical and Soft Skills are Crucial for Success. Available at:
https://scottgraffius.com/blog/files/successful-ai-teams.html. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.20321.79200.

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About Scott M. Graffius


Scott-M-Graffius---SA---v23050207-LR

Scott M. Graffius, PMP, SA, CSP-SM, CSP-PO, CSM, CSPO, SFE, ITIL, LSSGB is an agile project management practitioner, consultant, multi-award-winning author, and international keynote speaker. He is the Founder of Exceptional PPM and PMO Solutions™ and subsidiary Exceptional Agility™. He has generated over $1.9 billion of business value in aggregate for Global Fortune 500 businesses and other organizations he has served. Graffius and content from his books, talks, workshops, and more have been featured and used by businesses, professional associations, governments, and universities. Examples include Microsoft, Oracle, Broadcom, Cisco, Gartner, Project Management Institute, IEEE, Qantas, National Academy of Sciences, United States Department of Energy, New Zealand Ministry of Education, Yale University, Tufts University, and others. He has delighted audiences with dynamic and engaging talks and workshops on agile, project management, and technology leadership at 85 conferences and other events across 25 countries.

His full bio is available
here.

Connect with Scott on:


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About Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions

scott_m_graffius_agile_scrum_v22123007_lr_1000x1000_sq

Shifting customer needs are common in today's marketplace. Businesses must be adaptive and responsive to change while delivering an exceptional customer experience to be competitive.

There are a variety of frameworks supporting the development of products and services, and most approaches fall into one of two broad categories: traditional or agile. Traditional practices such as waterfall engage sequential development, while agile involves iterative and incremental deliverables. Organizations are increasingly embracing agile to manage projects, and best meet their business needs of rapid response to change, fast delivery speed, and more.

With clear and easy to follow instructions, the multi award-winning
Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions book by Scott M. Graffius (Chris Hare and Colin Giffen, Technical Editors) helps the reader:

  • Implement and use the most popular agile framework―Scrum;
  • Deliver products in short cycles with rapid adaptation to change, fast time-to-market, and continuous improvement; and
  • Support innovation and drive competitive advantage.

Hailed by Literary Titan as “the book highlights the versatility of Scrum beautifully.”

Winner of 17 first place awards.

Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



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About
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change

scott_m_graffius_agile_transformation_lr_1000x505

Thriving in today's marketplace frequently depends on making a transformation to become more agile. Those successful in the transition enjoy faster delivery speed and ROI, higher satisfaction, continuous improvement, and additional benefits.

Based on actual events,
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change provides a quick (60-90 minute) read about a successful agile transformation at a multinational entertainment and media company, told from the author's perspective as an agile coach.

The award-winning book by
Scott M. Graffius is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



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The short URL for this article is:
https://bit.ly/ai-teams

© Copyright 2023 Scott M. Graffius. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the express written permission of Scott M. Graffius.





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Scott M. Graffius Speaking at Quantum Computing Conference

BY SCOTT M. GRAFFIUS | ScottGraffius.com

Scott M Graffius - Conf42 Quantum Computing Conference 2023 - Cover Image - LR



Scott M. Graffius has delivered 86 talks and workshops at conferences and other events across 25 countries. His newest engagement will be at the Conf42 Quantum Computing 2023 Conference, where he'll present “What Successful AI Teams Have in Common.” The talk draws from his work on AI projects as well as research from the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence, Google, IBM, IEEE, Microsoft, MIT, Software Engineering Institute, United States Artificial Intelligence Institute, and many others.

The conference also includes talks by:

Details


📍 Watch the Quantum Computing Conference online
🗓 June 29, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. PT | 5:00 p.m. GMT | 8:00 p.m. EET
🎟 Subscribe to watch at: https://bit.ly/1-signup

Scott M Graffius - Conf42 Quantum Computing Conference - Excerpt from Program

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About Scott M. Graffius


Scott-M-Graffius---SA---v23050207-LR

Scott M. Graffius, PMP, SA, CSP-SM, CSP-PO, CSM, CSPO, SFE, ITIL, LSSGB is an agile project management practitioner, consultant, multi-award-winning author, and international keynote speaker. He is the Founder of Exceptional PPM and PMO Solutions™ and subsidiary Exceptional Agility™. He has generated over $1.9 billion of business value in aggregate for Global Fortune 500 businesses and other organizations he has served. Graffius and content from his books, talks, workshops, and more have been featured and used by businesses, professional associations, governments, and universities. Examples include Microsoft, Oracle, Broadcom, Cisco, Gartner, Project Management Institute, IEEE, Qantas, National Academy of Sciences, United States Department of Energy, New Zealand Ministry of Education, Yale University, Tufts University, and others. He has delighted audiences with dynamic and engaging talks and workshops on agile, project management, and technology (including AI) leadership at 86 conferences and other events across 25 countries.

His full bio is available
here.

Connect with Scott on:


follow-scott-m-graffius-on-twitter---v22122107-1000x1000-lr---sq

black_spacer_lr_sq_v3

About Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions

scott_m_graffius_agile_scrum_v22123007_lr_1000x1000_sq

Shifting customer needs are common in today's marketplace. Businesses must be adaptive and responsive to change while delivering an exceptional customer experience to be competitive.

There are a variety of frameworks supporting the development of products and services, and most approaches fall into one of two broad categories: traditional or agile. Traditional practices such as waterfall engage sequential development, while agile involves iterative and incremental deliverables. Organizations are increasingly embracing agile to manage projects, and best meet their business needs of rapid response to change, fast delivery speed, and more.

With clear and easy to follow instructions, the multi award-winning
Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions book by Scott M. Graffius (Chris Hare and Colin Giffen, Technical Editors) helps the reader:

  • Implement and use the most popular agile framework―Scrum;
  • Deliver products in short cycles with rapid adaptation to change, fast time-to-market, and continuous improvement; and
  • Support innovation and drive competitive advantage.

Hailed by Literary Titan as “the book highlights the versatility of Scrum beautifully.”

Winner of 17 first place awards.

Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



black_spacer_lr_sq_v3

About
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change

scott_m_graffius_agile_transformation_lr_1000x505

Thriving in today's marketplace frequently depends on making a transformation to become more agile. Those successful in the transition enjoy faster delivery speed and ROI, higher satisfaction, continuous improvement, and additional benefits.

Based on actual events,
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change provides a quick (60-90 minute) read about a successful agile transformation at a multinational entertainment and media company, told from the author's perspective as an agile coach.

The award-winning book by
Scott M. Graffius is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



black_spacer_lr_sq_v3

The short URL for this article is:
https://bit.ly/conf42

© Copyright 2023 Scott M. Graffius. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the express written permission of Scott M. Graffius.





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Top 5 Roles on AI Teams

BY SCOTT M. GRAFFIUS | ScottGraffius.com

Scott M Graffius - Top Five Roles on AI Teams - v Oct 8 2023 LwRes



Select
here to download a PDF of this article.

Scott_M_Graffius_-_Blog_Spacer_-_v23111107_-_Introduction

Effective Artificial Intelligence (AI) teams leverage critical hard skills and soft skills to develop and deliver successful AI products, including innovative solutions that address real-world challenges and have a positive impact on the world. (If you’d like to learn about the critical skills leveraged by effective AI teams, select here for our popular article on the topic.) This article focuses on the roles on AI teams.

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The composition (size and roles) of AI teams varies by organization based on the respective company’s needs, the nature of the AI endeavor including complexity, and other factors. However, AI teams commonly include (at least these) five positions. Here are the five along with brief descriptions, listed in alphabetical order:

  1. AI Research Scientist: AI research scientists are responsible for conducting research and developing cutting-edge AI algorithms and models.
  2. AI Software Engineer: AI software engineers are responsible for integrating AI components into software applications. They bridge the gap between AI research and practical implementation, making AI systems usable by end-users.
  3. Data Engineer: Data engineers are responsible for building and managing the data pipelines that feed AI models. They ensure that data is collected, cleaned, and prepared in a format suitable for analysis and model training.
  4. Data Scientist: Data scientists are experts in data analysis and interpretation. They preprocess, analyze, and extract valuable insights from data, which is vital for training and improving AI models.
  5. Machine Learning Engineer: Machine learning engineers focus on implementing and deploying machine learning models into practical applications. They work to ensure that AI models are integrated into software systems effectively.

The above five roles collectively cover key aspects of AI development — from research and model creation to data management and software integration. Depending on requirements and characteristics (such as degree of complexity), additional positions may be needed.

An expanded list of 20 roles common to AI teams follow. Here are the aforementioned 5 and 15 additional positions, listed in alphabetical order:
  1. AI DevOps Engineer: Combines development and operations skills to streamline AI model deployment. They automate tasks.
  2. AI Ethicist: Ensures that AI systems are developed and used responsibly and ethically.
  3. AI Infrastructure Engineer: Builds and maintains the infrastructure required for AI model deployment and scalability.
  4. AI Legal and Compliance Specialist: Ensures AI projects comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
  5. AI Marketing Specialist: Promotes and markets AI products and solutions to customers and stakeholders.
  6. AI Operations (AIOps) Specialist: Focuses on the operational aspects of AI, including monitoring, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
  7. AI Product Manager: Oversees the development and deployment of AI products.
  8. AI Project Manager: Leverages general and specialized hard skills and soft skills, and applies their understanding of many aspects of artificial intelligence (such as machine learning, deep learning, automation, robotics, and natural language processing) to manage the planning, execution, and delivery of AI projects. Note: Titles vary by organization; the position may be called an AI Project Manager, AI Program Manager, Agile Project Manager, Technical Project Manager, Scrum Master, or another related designation.
  9. AI QA Engineer: Ensures the quality and reliability of AI models through testing and validation.
  10. AI Research Scientist: Conducts research to develop new AI algorithms and models.
  11. AI Software Engineer: Builds and maintains software systems that incorporate AI components.
  12. AI Trainer/Annotator: Prepares and labels data for training AI models, especially for supervised learning.
  13. AI UX/UI Designer: Designs user interfaces and experiences for AI-powered applications.
  14. Computer Vision Engineer: Specializes in developing AI models for image and video analysis.
  15. Data Analyst: Examines data to uncover trends and insights that can guide AI projects.
  16. Data Engineer: Manages data pipelines and prepares data for analysis and model training.
  17. Data Scientist: Analyzes and interprets data to extract insights and inform AI models.
  18. Deep Learning Engineer: Focuses on deep neural networks and architectures.
  19. Machine Learning Engineer: Focuses on implementing and deploying machine learning models.
  20. Natural Language Processing (NLP) Engineer: Specializes in working with text and language-related AI tasks.

The composition (size and roles) of AI teams varies, based on the complexity of the AI project and other factors. On smaller teams, individuals often ‘wear multiple hats.’ On larger teams, individuals typically have more specialized roles.

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This article covered the roles common to AI teams. Listings are not exhaustive of all potential positions. Additionally, as the field of AI continues to evolve and advance, new roles may materialize to address emerging challenges and opportunities.

(If you’d like to learn about the critical skills leveraged by successful AI teams, select
here for our popular article on the topic.)

Scott_M_Graffius_-_Blog_Spacer_-_v23111107_-_References

References/Sources


All of the supplied links were functional when this article was published.


Scott_M_Graffius_-_Blog_Spacer_-_v23111107_-_Cite

How to Cite This Article

Graffius, Scott M. (2023, October 9). Top 5 Roles on AI Teams. Available at:
https://scottgraffius.com/blog/files/ai-team-roles.html. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.34857.57449.

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About Scott M. Graffius


Scott M Graffius - ScottGraffius_com Blog - v S Perry Nov 1 2023 - LR

Scott M. Graffius, PMP, SA, CSP-SM, CSP-PO, CSM, CSPO, SFE, ITIL, LSSGB is an agile project management practitioner, consultant, multi-award-winning author, and international keynote speaker. He is the Founder of Exceptional PPM and PMO Solutions™ and subsidiary Exceptional Agility™. He has generated over $1.9 billion of business value in aggregate for Global Fortune 500 businesses and other organizations he has served. Graffius and content from his books, talks, workshops, and more have been featured and used by businesses, professional associations, governments, and universities. Examples include Microsoft, Oracle, Broadcom, Cisco, Gartner, Project Management Institute, IEEE, Qantas, National Academy of Sciences, United States Department of Energy, New Zealand Ministry of Education, Yale University, Tufts University, and others. He has delighted audiences with dynamic and engaging talks and workshops on agile, project management, and technology (including AI, GameDev, and more) leadership at 87 conferences and other events across 25 countries.

His full bio is available
here.

Connect with Scott on:


follow-scott-m-graffius-on-twitter---v22122107-1000x1000-lr---sq

black_spacer_lr_sq_v3

About Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions

scott_m_graffius_agile_scrum_v22123007_lr_1000x1000_sq

Shifting customer needs are common in today's marketplace. Businesses must be adaptive and responsive to change while delivering an exceptional customer experience to be competitive.

There are a variety of frameworks supporting the development of products and services, and most approaches fall into one of two broad categories: traditional or agile. Traditional practices such as waterfall engage sequential development, while agile involves iterative and incremental deliverables. Organizations are increasingly embracing agile to manage projects, and best meet their business needs of rapid response to change, fast delivery speed, and more.

With clear and easy to follow instructions, the multi award-winning
Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions book by Scott M. Graffius (Chris Hare and Colin Giffen, Technical Editors) helps the reader:

  • Implement and use the most popular agile framework―Scrum;
  • Deliver products in short cycles with rapid adaptation to change, fast time-to-market, and continuous improvement; and
  • Support innovation and drive competitive advantage.

Hailed by Literary Titan as “the book highlights the versatility of Scrum beautifully.”

Winner of 17 first place awards.

Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



black_spacer_lr_sq_v3

About
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change

scott_m_graffius_agile_transformation_lr_1000x505

Thriving in today's marketplace frequently depends on making a transformation to become more agile. Those successful in the transition enjoy faster delivery speed and ROI, higher satisfaction, continuous improvement, and additional benefits.

Based on actual events,
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change provides a quick (60-90 minute) read about a successful agile transformation at a multinational entertainment and media company, told from the author's perspective as an agile coach.

The award-winning book by
Scott M. Graffius is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



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The short link for this article is:
https://bit.ly/ai-roles.

© Copyright 2023 Scott M. Graffius. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the express written permission of Scott M. Graffius.





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Scott M. Graffius Speaking on Successful AI at DevDays Europe 2024 Conference

BY SCOTT M. GRAFFIUS | ScottGraffius.com

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Agile leader, consultant, creator, multi-award-winning author, and international public speaker Scott M. Graffius delights audiences around the world with talks and workshops on AI, Innovation, Agile, Project Management, High Performance Teams, Video Game Development, Tech Leadership, Strategic Alignment, and more. He uses everyday language and vibrant custom visuals to make complex topics clear and understandable, and he provides audiences with practical information they can use. His sessions are highly rated by attendees and organizers alike.

Conference organizers, businesses, professional associations, government agencies, and universities around the world invite Scott to speak.
He’s presented 89 talks and workshops at conferences and other events (public and private/corporate) across 25 countries.

Scott's newest engagement will be the DevDays Europe 2024 Conference, where he'll present “What Successful AI Development Teams Have in Common.” His talk draws from his work on AI projects as well as research from DARPA, Google, IBM, IEEE, Microsoft, Nvidia, Oracle, Software Engineering Institute, USAII, and other organizations.

💡 AI
ℹ️ https://bit.ly/dde2024
📍 Vilnius, Lithuania | Online
🗓 Tuesday, 21 May 2024
🕙 10:00 a.m. Eastern European Time
🎟 https://devdays.lt

About the DevDays Europe 2024 Conference

DevDays Europe brings together internationally recognized speakers and developers to encourage excellence and innovation in the software development community. The conference will cover emerging technologies and best practices in the software development industry — regardless of technological platform or language — without commercial hype. It will run from May 20-21, 23-24. Conference sessions will take place in the dynamic ambiance of movie theater halls at the
Multikino Ozas (Multikino, Ozo str. 18, Vilnius, Lithuania). Visit https://devdays.lt to learn more.

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About Scott M. Graffius

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Scott M. Graffius, PMP, SA, CSP-SM, CSP-PO, CSM, CSPO, ITIL, LSSGB is an agile project management practitioner, consultant, thinker, creator, multi-award-winning author, and international public speaker. Founder and CEO of Exceptional PPM and PMO Solutions™ and subsidiary Exceptional Agility™, he has generated over $1.9 billion for Global Fortune 500 businesses and other organizations he has served. Graffius and content from his books, talks, workshops, and more have been featured and used by Microsoft, Oracle, Broadcom, Cisco, Gartner, Project Management Institute, IEEE, National Academy of Sciences, United States Department of Energy, Yale University, Tufts University, and others. He delights audiences with dynamic and engaging talks and workshops on agile project management, AI, Tech leadership, video game development, strategic alignment, the science of high performance teams, and more. To date, he's presented sessions at 89 conferences and other events across 25 countries.

His full bio is available
here.

Connect with Scott on:


Scott M Graffius on X - SG on X Design 2 - v Feb 7 2024 - LwRes

Scott M Graffius - Impact_com Platform for Influencers and Affiliates - v April 7 2024 - rev April 10 2024 - LwRes

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About Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions

Scott_M_Graffius_Agile_Scrum_v22123007_LR_1000x1000_sq

Shifting customer needs are common in today's marketplace. Businesses must be adaptive and responsive to change while delivering an exceptional customer experience to be competitive.

There are a variety of frameworks supporting the development of products and services, and most approaches fall into one of two broad categories: traditional or agile. Traditional practices such as waterfall engage sequential development, while agile involves iterative and incremental deliverables. Organizations are increasingly embracing agile to manage projects, and best meet their business needs of rapid response to change, fast delivery speed, and more.

With clear and easy to follow step-by-step instructions,
Scott M. Graffius's award-winning Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions helps the reader:

  • Implement and use the most popular agile framework―Scrum;
  • Deliver products in short cycles with rapid adaptation to change, fast time-to-market, and continuous improvement; and
  • Support innovation and drive competitive advantage.

Hailed by Literary Titan as “the book highlights the versatility of Scrum beautifully.”

Winner of 17 first place awards.

Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



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About
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change

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Thriving in today's marketplace frequently depends on making a transformation to become more agile. Those successful in the transition enjoy faster delivery speed and ROI, higher satisfaction, continuous improvement, and additional benefits.

Based on actual events,
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change provides a quick (60-90 minute) read about a successful agile transformation at a multinational entertainment and media company, told from the author's perspective as an agile coach.

The award-winning book by
Scott M. Graffius is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



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Short link for this article: https://bit.ly/dev-ai

DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.24313.07529

© Copyright 2024 Scott M. Graffius. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the express written permission of Scott M. Graffius.



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How Algorithms Shape the User Experience on Social Media Platforms

BY SCOTT M. GRAFFIUS | ScottGraffius.com

Scott M Graffius - ScottGraffius_Com - How Algorithms Shape the User Experience on Social Media Platforms - v2 - LwRes




Introduction

More than 5.1 billion people use social media. Algorithms shape every social media interaction.

Social media platforms allow people to create, share, and exchange information and content with others. There are too many platforms to list, but eight examples include:

  • Facebook,
  • Instagram,
  • LinkedIn,
  • Pinterest,
  • Snapchat,
  • TikTok,
  • X (formerly Twitter),
  • and YouTube.

Algorithms on social media platforms are a unique set of mathematical rules and signals that determine what content to display to users, and in what order. Algorithms are both architects and gatekeepers of user experiences on the platforms.

Social media is central to many people’s daily lives. However, the platforms employ incredibly complex algorithms and they typically keep their details secret.

The impacts of algorithms are widespread and profound. They can influence opinions, shape narratives, and potentially dictate social behavior. This article reveals how algorithms shape the user experience on social media platforms. After this Introduction there are seven parts:

  • From Simple to Complex (the genesis of social media algorithms),
  • General Mechanics (the components of algorithms),
  • Benefits and Risks (the upside and downside of algorithms),
  • Algorithm-Savvy Marketing,
  • Ethical Considerations,
  • The Future of Algorithms on Social Media Platforms, and
  • Conclusion

From Simple to Complex


Social media platforms initially relied on simple chronological feeds. However, when user engagement (such as likes, shares, and comments) exploded, platforms decided to develop and implement more sophisticated methods, principally algorithms. Then, engagement-based models shaped by algorithms took precedence. Content that users were more likely to interact with was prioritized.

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine (ML) learning has further transformed these algorithms into powerful tools. For better or worse, they are entirely capable of hyper-personalizing content which can significantly influence perceptions and decisions. AI and ML are also discussed later in this article.

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General Mechanics

A complex web of data points and signals is at the core of social media algorithms. Algorithms are composed of including five fundamental components:

  1. User Engagement: Engagement is at the heart of algorithms. The more users interact with specific content, the more likely it is to be promoted within feeds. This initiates a cycle where popular content gains even more prominence.

  1. Content Prioritization: Here are examples of how different social media platforms treat content. The terms “advances,” “favors,” and “prioritizes” are used interchangeably.

  • Facebook advances live videos.
  • Instagram favors images and videos.
  • LinkedIn prioritizes thought leadership posts.
  • Pinterest advances pins about recipes, home décor, and fashion; and pins that link to external websites such as blogs.
  • Snapchat prioritizes content that uses filters and lenses.
  • TikTok advances videos that receive high engagement rates within seconds of being posted.
  • X increasingly favors videos.
  • YouTube prioritizes long videos with high watch times.

  1. Content Relevance: Algorithms prioritize content that aligns with users’ preferences and history. For example, if a user frequently engages with fitness-related posts, the algorithm will likely serve them with similar content. That tactic can enhance user satisfaction, but it can also lead to echo chambers. Those are environments that expose users primarily to information that reinforces their existing beliefs.

  1. Freshness: Social media thrives on immediacy. Newer content often takes precedence over older posts. That compels brands, influencers, and others to maintain an apt posting schedule.

  1. Network Effects: Content gaining traction among a user’s network helps amplify its reach by spreading (more) rapidly, including possibly ‘going viral.’ There is no universal quantification for what constitutes ‘viral,’ but a post with 1 million or more views/impressions may qualify.

Benefits and Risks

Algorithms curate content to match the preferences of individuals. That can present both benefits and risks.

Four benefits of algorithmic curation include:

  1. Personalization: Individuals tend to interact more frequently with content that aligns with their preferences.

  1. Content Discovery: Algorithms can facilitate the introduction of content and accounts that users may not have encountered otherwise.

  1. Reduced Information Overload: Social media platforms house a massive volume of content. Algorithms may help filter out the noise. By prioritizing relevant posts, algorithms can help individuals to focus on what matters most to them.

  1. Enhanced Engagement: As users find more of the content they enjoy, they will likely spend more time on the platform. This increased engagement also benefits platforms as they can monetize the increased time and attention through advertising.

Three risks of algorithmic curation include:

  1. Echo Chambers and Polarization: The potential formation of echo chambers is the most concerning byproduct of algorithmic personalization. Users are at risk of being shielded from differing perspectives. That is especially the case with political discourse; those situations can lead to polarization or increased polarization.

  1. Risk of Promoting Incorrect Information: The algorithms that prioritize engagement can potentially (by design or inadvertently) boost sensationalist content or incorrect information.

  1. User Fatigue: Users may experience fatigue or disillusionment when they become aware of the potential negative effects of algorithms. Users who feel that their experiences are being engineered may lose trust in the platforms, and they may stop using them.

Algorithm-Savvy Marketing

Businesses and marketers must have a good understanding of social media algorithms. Further, as the digital landscape changes over time, so must strategies. Here are six principles for navigating this complex terrain:

  1. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Create meaningful, engaging, and relevant posts.

  1. Engage Authentically: Engage with one’s audience in genuine ways such as through storytelling, user-generated content, and responsive interactions.

  1. Embrace Video Content: Use videos as platforms are increasingly prioritizing that content.

  1. Stay Informed: Marketers should be on the lookout for changes and be responsive to them.

  1. Leverage Data Analytics: Informed by metrics, marketers can adjust their strategies when needed.

  1. Experiment and Adapt: Platforms are continuously changing. Users’ tastes may change as well. Marketers should experiment with different content types, posting schedules, and engagement tactics to discover what works best for their audience.

Ethical Considerations

Algorithms shape user experiences, and that power carries significant responsibility. Here are four key ethical points and questions:

  1. Transparency: Users deserve to understand how their data is used and how content is prioritized. Increased transparency can foster trust between users and platforms. Is the social media platform transparent about how its algorithm works.

  1. Algorithmic Bias: Algorithms are not immune to bias as they often reflect the prejudices in the data they analyze. Is the social media platform taking steps to remove bias wherever possible?

  1. Content Moderation: What role, if any, should platforms play in moderating content?

  1. User Well-Being: Is the platform primarily focused on providing a great user experience? Or is it about doing anything and everything possible to generate time on the platform and obtain a presumed corresponding increase in revenue?

The Future of Social Media Algorithms

The future of social media algorithms is certain to be exciting and daunting. Several trends are emerging. They may impact the future of algorithms in the following five ways:

  1. Increased Use of AI and ML: AI and ML will continue to play a role in refining algorithms. As the technologies advance, algorithms will become even more adept at understanding user preferences and predicting behavior.

  1. Greater Focus on User Control: Users are becoming more aware of their data and how it’s used. Platforms may offer control to users, allowing users to customize their feeds and manage their engagement preferences.

  1. Ethical Algorithm Design: Ethical frameworks that prioritize user well-being, transparency, and accountability may gain prominence in the future.

  1. Integration of AR and VR: Social media platforms may incorporate augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) elements into their algorithms in the future. If that happens, the result will be immersive user experiences that transcend traditional content consumption.

  1. Community-Centric Algorithms: Algorithms in the future may prioritize community engagement and collective interests.

Conclusion

Each algorithm is a complex set of mathematical rules and signals that determine what content to display to users, and in what order. That gives them the ability to empower or manipulate users. Simply put, algorithms have a big impact on user experiences on social media platforms. It’s suggested that users advocate for ethical, user-centric design in the development and deployment of these algorithms as well as user control and transparency. When platforms adopt those measures, users will have a better experience.

For the references, how to cite this article, information about the author and more, continue reading.

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References/Sources

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How to Cite this Article

Graffius, Scott M. (2024, September 26). How Algorithms Shape the User Experience on Social Media Platforms. Available at:
https://scottgraffius.com/blog/files/algorithms-and-the-user-experience.html. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.29149.01767.

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About Scott M. Graffius


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Scott M. Graffius is a global leader in agile project management, an expert on teamwork tradecraft, an authority on temporal dynamics on social media platforms, a creator, a consultant, a trainer, an award-winning author, and an international public speaker.

He's generated over $1.9 billion of business value in aggregate for Global Fortune 500 businesses and other organizations he's served. Businesses and industries range from consumer products to advanced technology (including AI and R&D), e-commerce, music, streaming/OTT video, television, film, video games, financial services, government, and more.

Graffius and content from his books (
Agile Scrum and Agile Transformation), talks, workshops, and more have been featured and used by businesses, professional associations, governments, and universities around the world. Examples include Adobe, American Management Association, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Bayer, Boston University, Broadcom, Cisco, Deimos Aerospace, DevOps Institute, EU's European Commission, Ford Motor Company, Hasso Plattner Institute Germany, IEEE, Johns Hopkins University, London South Bank University, Microsoft, National Academy of Sciences, New Zealand Government, Oracle, Project Management Institute, Torrens University Australia, UC San Diego, TBS Switzerland, UK Sports Institute, University of Galway Ireland, U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. National Park Service, U.S. Tennis Association, Virginia Tech, Warsaw University of Technology, Yale University, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, and many others.

He delights audiences around the world with dynamic and engaging talks and workshops. He's presented sessions at 91 conferences and other events across 25 countries. Visit
here to learn more and here to ask Scott to speak at your event.

Scott M Graffius on X - SG on X Design 2 - v Feb 7 2024 - LwRes

Scott M Graffius - Impact_com Platform for Influencers and Affiliates - v April 7 2024 - rev April 10 2024 - LwRes



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About Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions

scott_m_graffius_agile_scrum_v22123007_lr_1000x1000_sq

Shifting customer needs are common in today's marketplace. Businesses must be adaptive and responsive to change while delivering an exceptional customer experience to be competitive.

There are a variety of frameworks supporting the development of products and services, and most approaches fall into one of two broad categories: traditional or agile. Traditional practices such as waterfall engage sequential development, while agile involves iterative and incremental deliverables. Organizations are increasingly embracing agile to manage projects, and best meet their business needs of rapid response to change, fast delivery speed, and more.

With clear and easy to follow instructions, the multi award-winning
Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions book by Scott M. Graffius (Chris Hare and Colin Giffen, Technical Editors) helps the reader:

  • Implement and use the most popular agile framework―Scrum;
  • Deliver products in short cycles with rapid adaptation to change, fast time-to-market, and continuous improvement; and
  • Support innovation and drive competitive advantage.

Hailed by Literary Titan as “the book highlights the versatility of Scrum beautifully.”

Winner of 17 first place awards.

Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



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About
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change

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Thriving in today's marketplace frequently depends on making a transformation to become more agile. Those successful in the transition enjoy faster delivery speed and ROI, higher satisfaction, continuous improvement, and additional benefits.

Based on actual events,
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change provides a quick (60-90 minute) read about a successful agile transformation at a multinational entertainment and media company, told from the author's perspective as an agile coach.

The award-winning book by
Scott M. Graffius is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



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Post-Publication Notes

If there are any supplements or updates to this article after the date of publication, they will appear here.

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A PDF of this article is
here

The short link for this article is:
https://bit.ly/algo-ux

© Copyright 2024 Scott M. Graffius. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the express written permission of Scott M. Graffius.





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