From the Battlefield to the Ballgame: Diverse AI Use Cases Show Impact

More good business use cases for AI.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is impacting Major League Baseball (MLB) by enhancing player development, game strategy, player health management, scouting and recruitment, and fan experience. Teams like the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Dodgers are leveraging AI for data analytics, injury prevention, and performance optimization. AI algorithms analyze player data and provide valuable insights for making informed decisions.

The Department of Defense’s (DOD) AI strategy relies on high-quality data and partnerships with the private sector. Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer Craig Martell emphasized the importance of data quality in scaling AI technologies across DOD’s mission. The DOD is pursuing an “AI scaffolding” approach, leveraging industry expertise while ensuring data quality as the foundation for long-term AI adoption. Martell highlighted the need for high-quality data to streamline solutions across combatant commands and enable interoperability. The DOD is actively seeking industry input and plans to publish APIs and federated data catalogs to drive change and facilitate collaboration with developers.

AI is booming for military-focused startups, per some MIT Technology Review coverage.   While there is a growing demand for AI in the defense sector, the adoption process is slow due to the dominance of large contractors and clunky military vetting processes. Startups and venture capitalists are frustrated by the slow pace and the risk of talented engineers leaving for other industries. However, AI companies are starting to secure lucrative military contracts. Ethical concerns surrounding the use of AI in warfare persist, particularly regarding autonomous weapons and the loss of human control.

Data Analytics is a key theme across all the use cases.   IT service providers can take inspiration from these applications to develop analytics services that offer deep insights into performance metrics, risk assessment, and optimization strategies for clients in various sectors, not just sports.  

For IT service professionals, these examples underscore the importance of data quality, strategic partnerships, and the need to address ethical considerations in AI deployment.   All great consulting opportunities.