Think machine learning does it all? Think again.

A few months ago, we discussed the integration of machine learning into healthcare to speed review of medical data and better allocate treatment options and preventative medicine. These examples were a very brief glimpse into the possibilities within the field of healthcare. In reality, machine learning has already been in practice for some time on the web, by our email services, on our smartphones, by finance and banking companies, and beyond.

Pioneered in the 1960’s, machine learning employs algorithms to study data, conduct tiny experiments, observe patterns, adjust and repeat. Essentially the computer learns and evolves through processing. The only limitations are the quantity and quality of the data set, and the appropriateness of the algorithms. But don’t worry, humans must still guide and judge the appropriateness of the process and its results. Plus, if the machine learning experience isn’t user-friendly or reasonably enjoyable, humans won’t embrace them.

For instance, a data center remotely monitoring infrastructure performance in over 100,000 building was gamified to increase efficiency in responding to system alerts by system operators. Incorporating reward and a bit of competition into the system improved operator engagement and response times. Simply put, the system capitalized on human emotion and pleasure to yield better results. Computing power alone wasn’t enough to do a proper job.

This is a key point. No matter how sophisticated machine learning becomes, it cannot replicate human emotion, creativity, and inspiration. That’s where some think merging human gifts with machine learning makes magic. Through machine learning, computers can carry out grunt work across service industries like healthcare, sales, banking, technology, and fashion. When we spend less time on non-essential tasks, we can free up our time to engage our uniquely human gifts to innovate and create.

Proponents of machine learning encourage its use in all aspects of our lives to create a more streamlined society focused on improving the very art of living. They theorize by only focusing on the most important aspects of life and spending more time creating, innovating, and generally enjoying life, leads to a happier, healthier future for everyone.

— Embrace hope.

Think of the repetitive daily tasks in your life — can machine learning be used to eliminate or improve these? What would you do with the gained time?

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Rebounz: a start-up with a mission to instill hope in people experiencing mental health struggles around self-worth, grief or uncertainty. www.rebounz.com Want to receive updates? Join our mailing list.