During the Devoteam G Cloud Day 2023 event at Google Brussels, Ken Bastiaensen, Director of Special Projects and Innovation at Silverfin, and Kaïs Albichari, ML Tribe Tech Lead, delivered the final talk. Ken discussed their experience with AI and highlighted its significance for businesses. Leveraging the power of AI becomes crucial for companies to remain competitive and foster innovation. Silverfin has successfully integrated AI into its operations using the Google Cloud Platform (GCP). This integration led to a transformation of their business model and processes. The company’s achievements on GCP motivate them to further invest in the GenAI offering. We delve into Silverfin’s journey with GCP and Generative AI, highlighting their lessons learned.
Silverfin’s AI Journey and Adoption of GCP
Ken Bastiaensen plays a crucial role in Silverfin’s AI initiatives. With his background in starting a machine learning company in 2017, Bastiaensen was already deeply involved in AI. In 2018, they developed an AI plugin for the Silverfin platform, leading to their acquisition in 2021. Initially, Silverfin focused on GCP and Azure but eventually embraced GCP due to its user-friendly tools and comprehensive services. By leveraging GCP’s offerings, Silverfin aimed to simplify infrastructure management and deliver value to its customers.
Silverfin’s primary product is an accounting platform integrating various accounting and bookkeeping software. It automates compliance processes and facilitates advisory services for accountants. While Silverfin uses cloud computing and AI technologies, its main focus is not on selling these technologies directly. Instead, they focus on selling a product driven by AI. The value for Silverfin lies in the time saved through automation and the enhanced capabilities provided by AI. Reducing the time required for accounting tasks from hours to minutes, Silverfin empowers accountants to make informed decisions while maintaining control and judgment. This unique approach allows Silverfin to view AI as an enabler rather than a standalone selling point.
Leveraging GCP Services for Efficiency and Scalability
Silverfin has adopted a strategy of maximising the use of GCP services to support its business objectives. They initially implemented GCP on a small scale and have progressively expanded their usage while taking advantage of the services offered. By doing so, Silverfin can underestimate the complexities associated with infrastructure management and focus on delivering value to its clients. They prioritise services that handle tasks such as Kubernetes management, allowing them to avoid unnecessary concerns. Silverfin uses Vertex AI and Firestore since last year and has had a positive experience with these services. This approach enables them to establish a strong foundation and avoid frequent architectural changes that can impede their growth.
Collaboration with Google and Future Possibilities
Silverfin realises Google is a critical partner in their AI journey. Google’s reputation as an innovator and its commitment to advancing technology align well with Silverfin’s aspirations. By collaborating closely with Google, Silverfin aims to explore new possibilities and push the boundaries of AI innovation. They participate in Google’s research initiatives and have access to relevant tools and resources, enabling them to stay ahead of the curve. Looking ahead, Bastiaensen envisions a future where AI integration becomes a critical differentiator for businesses, especially within the technology sector. He believes that companies embracing AI will gain a significant advantage over those that do not.
Demystifying GenAI
Generative AI technologies garnered significant attention in recent months, generating excitement and concerns regarding their potential misuse. At the Devoteam G Cloud DAY, the focus was on clarifying the capabilities and limitations of these models and discussing best practices for maintaining control and scope over their responses. By utilising GenAI as a subject matter expert, companies can harness its potential to provide valuable insights and superior value.
Conclusion:
Silverfin emerged as a leader in the industry by seamlessly integrating GCP and generative AI into their operations. Their success is attributed to several key factors. First, they effectively utilised the services provided by GCP, enabling them to revolutionize accounting processes. Second, Silverfin takes a business-centric approach to AI implementation, focusing on delivering value and driving innovation. Third, they explored the potential of large language models, using their emergent capabilities. Finally, Silverfin maintained a close collaboration with Google, further developing its AI initiatives.
Looking ahead, Silverfin remains committed to pushing the boundaries of AI innovation. They are dedicated to driving technological advancements and continuing to provide exceptional value to their customers. By leveraging Generative AI technologies, Silverfin aims to stay at the forefront of its field and maintain its position as an industry leader.
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