Lauren Kujawa 
Group E
Topics: Database, Network, Sociology, and Future 

I use Google every single day, and it is rare that I only use Google once a day.  It is hard to believe that Google originally started as a research project for two PhD students when we look at what Google is today.  Google changed the way we access information and are now attempting to change the way artificial intelligence is created.  Google recently unveiled a project called AutoML, where ML stands for machine learning.  Essentially, Google is trying to create computer algorithms that can learn to build other machine-learning algorithms.  This project would take humans out of the AI creation process; this sounds like job elimination at first, but Google argues that only an estimated 10,000 people worldwide would possess the education, experience, and talent necessary to create AI technologies, meaning these people are difficult to find but are in high demand.  Companies consider AI the future, so finding a faster and cheaper way to crate these databases, AI, and accompanying networks is very important.  However, some question this process, arguing that this is altruism at its finest, but Microsoft, Google, and Amazon argue back, stating that these technologies will propel research to new levels, and say that AI and the AutoML process are the future of computer related technologies. 


Response 1: Chris Thach
Chris,
I really liked that you mentioned how the Google-Home and Alexa are becoming integral parts of our everyday lives.  The Google-Home and Alexa can answer the questions we have faster than we can find answers using our phones.  However, I somewhat disagree that these technologies can be implemented in the design process.  I find it difficult to believe these technologies would be able to answer questions I may have about site information or underground utilities, but I believe that these questions may be able to be answered by the Google-Home or Alexa in the future.  I do agree that there are added security risks if these technologies were to be implemented in certain fields, especially the banking field. 

Response 2: Kerry Milligan 
Kerry,
I found your paragraph on computer technology to be interesting.  I think it is very innovative and creative to construct a skyscraper that does not cast a shadow.  It almost seems impossible when thinking about it.  However, the London firm found a way to overcome this seemingly impossible task by making the buildings reflect light off of each other.  My only concern with this would be for the occupants inside the building.  I am wondering if some areas were too bright or too warm due to this feature.  Either way, I am still impressed with the firm's ability to overcome a skyscraper's shadow. 

Response 3: Brad DiGiovanni 
Brad,
I read the article you chose on HVAC and Sensors last week for our introductory blog post.  I thought it was very smart and practical to allow employees to reserve desks depending on their need.  Deloitte was able to save space my limiting the amount of desks in the building while also saving money on operating costs.  Based on the size of the building, I was surprised there were not more sensors implemented.