Artificial Intelligence (AI) has existed for decades, but the recent surge in data volume and availability, coupled with exponential computational growth made it an essential tool reshaping how organisations work. Moreover, the introduction of sophisticated generative AI capabilities means that it cannot only be used for analysis and predictions, but also for generating new content. AI can improve operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive innovation. But how do you get started with artificial intelligence?
In this blog post, we will explore how you can power your AI transformation with Azure and Ergo, a trusted Microsoft partner and Azure Expert MSP.
What is Azure AI?
When people think of AI, Microsoft Copilot often comes to mind. Copilot is a conversational chat interface, allowing users to search for specific information, generate texts, and create images or even write a piece of code based on written prompts. These capabilities are seamlessly integrated into Microsoft Cloud solutions, enhancing productivity, creativity, efficiency, and innovation across all Microsoft Cloud experiences.
However, ‘out of the box’ AI is not the only option. Organizations often require customization, fine-tuning, and even the development of their own AI applications and chatbots. This is where Azure AI services come into play.
Microsoft Azure AI portfolio designed for developers and data scientists includes the following services:
• Phi-3 open models are highly capable and cost-effective Small Language Models.
• Azure OpenAI Service helps building your own copilots and generative AI applications.
• Azure AI Search performs advanced search to retrieve relevant information.
• Azure AI Content Safety monitors and filter inappropriate content
• Azure AI Translator translates text in real time.
• Azure AI Speech includes speech-to-text, text-to-speech, speech translation, and speaker recognition services.
• Azure AI Vision provides machine vision capabilities.
• Azure AI Language helps creating applications with natural language processing capabilities.
• Azure AI Document Intelligence applies advanced machine learning to extract information from documents.
Addressing data privacy concerns
This approach, backed by robust compliance and security measures, empowers organizations to innovate confidently with Azure, knowing their data integrity and competitive advantages are well-protected.
How to get started with Azure AI services?
Getting started with Azure AI is easy and simple with Ergo. Ergo AI experts, including Kevin Greene, who is one of only four AI Platform MVPs in Ireland, suggest following 3-step approach to AI adoption:
• Getting Ready: Identify target use cases and clear success criteria, Evaluate the existing application estate, identify gaps where Azure AI can add value, agree on which AI models are in scope, understand the technical prerequisites and mitigate blockers to deployment
• Rolling out: Implement a best practice Azure Landing Zone , deploy Azure AI model(s), configure front-end UX with easy interaction possibilities, and secure the deployment with Azure Security services.
• Extend: Leverage Azure AI extensibility to bring in your own data from various sources, fine-tune or customize your AI models, and integrate with other Azure services or applications.
Clear vision, robust strategy and collaboration with experts form the cornerstone of a successful AI journey. Azure AI services provide a powerful and trusted set of capabilities that can help you transform your business. Whether you want to use pre-built or customizable AI models, build your own AI applications, or enhance your existing solutions, Azure AI can help you achieve your goals. And with Ergo, a trusted Microsoft partner, you can get the guidance and expertise you need.
Contact us to discuss your AI needs
If you are interested in learning more about how Ergo, a Microsoft partner with an Azure expert MSP status, can help you, please contact us. We would love to hear from you and discuss your AI needs and opportunities.
