In heavy-asset industries such as oil and gas, precision is crucial. The saying "99% accurate is 100% wrong" reflects this reality. Despite the excitement of new technology, even minor errors can have significant consequences. For example, an artificial intelligence (AI) system inaccurately predicting a critical machinery component's lifespan could lead to unexpected failures, causing costly downtime and safety hazards. Kongsberg Digital, an early adopter of Microsoft's large language models (LLMs), has witnessed AI's transformative power firsthand. Over the past 2 years, these LLMs have driven a resurgence in AI interest. Generative AI's growth presents unprecedented opportunities for the heavy-asset industry, transforming interactions with complex systems. Implementing AI can optimize maintenance schedules, predict failures before they happen, and streamline operations. The rise of generative AI has also spotlighted the more traditional areas of analytics, classification, prediction, and physics-based simulations. This renewed interest has led the oil and gas industry to look for ways to utilize AI to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety standards. However, AI inaccuracies or “hallucinations” are deal-breakers. AI-generated misinformation can mislead decision-makers, potentially resulting in disastrous outcomes. In some cases, using AI is unnecessary and adds little value. Heavy-asset industries prioritize safety and have historically been conservative in adopting new technologies. While post-ChatGPT developments are significant, the industry lags due to its zero tolerance for failure. This caution is justified; in environments where lives and substantial investments are at stake, even minor errors can be catastrophic. Moreover, precision in AI ensures not only safety and efficiency but also drives sustainability. Accurate AI predictions minimize waste and reduce energy consumption. Inaccurate decisions can lead to excessive energy use and waste, counteracting sustainability goals. AI can lower carbon emissions and reduce the environmental footprint by optimizing energy usage and ensuring regulatory compliance. Building trust in AI requires responsibility in development and implementation, ensuring security without compromise. We must be transparent about data lineage—a principle that guides our transformative journey. For AI to fully integrate into heavy-asset industries, it must be accurate but also secure and trustworthy. This transparency builds confidence among stakeholders, from engineers to executives.
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