From Data to Decisions: When (and When Not) to Use Generative AI in Business
Thu, Apr 23
|Edmonton Unlimited (downtown)
Through real-world examples, the talk explains how organizations are using approaches such as retrieval-augmented generation, tool integration, and AI agents to create value from their data.
Time & Location
Apr 23, 2026, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. MDT
Edmonton Unlimited (downtown), 10107 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5J 1W8, Canada
About the event
Speaker:
Tony Muhammad Yousefnezhad, Ph.D., Senior Data Scientist, National Bank
Tony is a Senior Data Scientist at the National Bank of Canada, specializing in developing enterprise-level machine learning solutions to address FinTech challenges. Visit his website at https://www.yousefnezhad.com
Title: From Data to Decisions: When (and When Not) to Use Generative AI in Business
Abstract: Generative AI has rapidly gained attention across industries, yet many organizations are still unclear about when it should be applied to solve business problems. This talk addresses a fundamental question: how can we identify when Generative AI, particularly large language models, is the right solution?
The session begins with a simple and intuitive explanation of how AI systems learn patterns from data, gradually building a clear understanding of how modern language models operate without relying on technical complexity. It introduces two contrasting perspectives on language—one based on structure and rules, and the other based on probability—to explain both the strengths and limitations of today’s AI systems.
The discussion then shifts to practical business considerations. Generative AI is especially effective when working with unstructured data such as documents, emails, and conversations, where context and interpretation are essential. At the same time, it is not always suitable for structured data or tasks that require high levels of precision and consistency.
Through real-world examples, the talk explains how organizations are using approaches such as retrieval-augmented generation, tool integration, and AI agents to create value from their data. The focus remains on clarity and applicability, ensuring that concepts are accessible to business and data professionals.
The session provides a clear mental model of how Generative AI works along with a practical framework for evaluating its use in real-world scenarios. The focus is on moving beyond the hype and enabling more informed, effective decision-making around the adoption of Generative AI in business environments.
Also "Save the Date": Nov 4-7 for our 12th Annual DAMA Conference - "Powering Health and AI with Trusted Data"
Do join us in person for beverages, finger food and great conversations around AI, Data Governance and Data Management. Meet prospective employers, create new business and tech contacts and help us build the ecosystem for business success in Alberta.
Online options available for those unable to attend in person.
