With every passing day, businesses are seeking to automate their processes. Organizations have implemented automated processes in customer service, production, marketing, data analytics, and healthcare to name a few. At the core of automation sits machine learning. Machine learning is a subset of AI, based on the concept that systems/machines can learn from data and identify patterns to make decisions with minimal human intervention.
Machine learning is helping organizations to enhance their growth and optimize their business processes such as manufacturing, customer-service, supply chain management, and marketing. Moreover, it improves employee engagement and enhances customer satisfaction.
In this blog, we will look at the various types of machine learning methods and explore why businesses need machine learning. Subsequently, we will look at how Alibaba Cloud Machine Learning Platform for AI is an ideal machine learning tool for businesses.
In general, machine learning algorithms can be classified as either "supervised" or "unsupervised" learning. The term "supervise" here does not refer to human intervention but rather the existence of a training dataset with the "correct" values for the machine to learn from. We can further categorize machine learning methods based on its purpose and the system it is applied to. They are as follows:
Supervised Learning: In this method, algorithms train with the help of labeled examples, such as an input where you know the desired output. For instance, an equipment could have data points labeled either “F” (failed) or “P” (pass). The learning algorithm gathers a set of inputs and corresponding correct outputs. The algorithm learns by comparing its actual output with the right outputs to find errors. It then modifies the model accordingly.
Unsupervised Learning: One can use this method against data that lacks historical labels. The user does not provide the system with the "correct answer." The algorithm is expected to figure out what is being represented. The aim is to explore the data and find a structure within. Unsupervised learning works well on transactional data. It is popularly used for marketing campaigns as it helps marketers segment their customers based on similar traits.
Semi-supervised Learning: Its application and purpose are the same as those of supervised learning. However, it uses both unlabeled and labeled data for training. It typically includes a small amount of labeled data with a significant amount of unlabeled data. Organizations might choose to go with this method as acquiring and analyzing labeled data involves substantial costs. Semi-supervised learning facilitates prediction, regression, and classification.
Reinforcement Learning: Although similar to supervised learning, reinforcement learning is focused on maximizing rewards rather than just getting "correct" answers to a problem. This method helps to incorporate machine learning into gaming, robotics, and navigation. Algorithms discover the next point of action through trial and error and decide which actions yield the greatest rewards. Reinforcement learning comprises of three primary components:
Moving on, let us look at how machine learning is helping businesses across industries.
Machine learning not only helps organizations to streamline their processes but also improve production efficiency with reduced costs and enhanced precision. Below are some machine learning advantages that make it imperative for businesses to adopt it.
In the following section, let us look at Alibaba Cloud's machine learning, its features and the industries that can use it to optimize their overall processes.
In March 2017, at its annual Computing Conference Shenzhen Summit, Alibaba Cloud announced that it had updated its machine learning platform PAI to PAI 2.0. During the announcement, Dr. Jingren Zhou, the Chief Scientist of Alibaba Cloud, mentioned that PAI is aimed at making Alibaba Cloud's AI program an effective tool for assisting businesses and people to resolve practical and real-time issues. As China's first machine learning platform, PAI promises to enhance better health care services and support the implementation of smart manufacturing.
Alibaba Cloud Machine Learning Platform is a one-stop high-end machine learning platform that comprises of data preprocessing, conventional machine learning algorithms, feature engineering, model evaluation, deep learning framework, and forecasting service. With the help of its GPU and CPU clusters, PAI can provide users with efficient computing for PB-level data.
For a much better understanding of Alibaba Cloud PAI's capabilities, let's look at its application scenarios in the following section.
So, who can use Alibaba Cloud PAI? Let us find that out in the next section.
Similar to various Alibaba Cloud products and services, Alibaba Cloud API comes with several features and benefits. Its application is not restricted to a sector or an industry. Its design is such that it can benefit organizations across sectors.
The following organizations can benefit greatly from Alibaba Cloud PAI:
AI and Big Data are transforming the way we live our lives and the way industries function. Businesses are looking out for innovative ways to increase the efficiency their business processes and ultimately enhance their business growth. Machine learning is one such technological innovation that is at forefront of the application of technology in businesses. It is a solution formed by the integration of AI and Big Data.
In this blog, we looked at the basic concept of machine learning, its various methods, and the business benefits of machine learning. We have also learned about Alibaba Cloud Machine Learning Platform for AI (PAI), a machine learning platform that was recently updated to cater to more industries across China. To know more about PAI, you can visit http://www.alibabacloud.com/product/machine-learning.
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Raja_KT March 22, 2019 at 3:56 pm
Nice elaboration of use-cases. I think without ML,DL, AI modern industries will be handicapped.