Stepping on the cracks—transcending the certainties of big data analytics

Every aspect of modern life is dominated by decision-making and the availability of data. We constantly access, process and evaluate data as we navigate complex and uncertain problem spaces. Communication and Information Technologies (ICTs) have developed to a point where it is possible for very large data sets, measured in Exabyte, to be stored across many servers and gathered by many different people and organizations, for multiple purposes. At the same time, research into Artificial Intelligence has progressed to a point where human decision-making can be supported, or even replaced, by intelligent agents and robotics. We recognize that many routine jobs that were once carried out by people can now be done faster and more flexibly using robotics, and software robotics has now moved beyond the factory and into administrative processes. The possibilities for such systems are enormous and can deliver many benefits to business, governments and ordinary citizens. However, there is also a downside to be considered. Is there still a role for human experience and intuition? How can we ensure that the benefits of analytics and AI continue to outweigh threats? How should we approach management of BI and AI on an on-going basis? This paper advocates an open systems approach in which B&AI may be incorporated with tools that support complex methods of inquiry.