AI is leading the way in technology and enabling organisations to improve their productivity and competitiveness. A recent study on the use of AI and its economic effect on the Austrian GDP reveals a growth potential of 18% within the next 10 years, which is equal to the economic output of Vienna and Styria together. AI will change the way we work and foster innovation at scale in various domains, such as health care, education, the environment, industry, business, and the wider economy. We hope that our ideas and use cases outlined in this AI for Austria whitepaper can contribute to the ongoing public discussion on how Austria can benefit from AI in the years ahead.
While AI presents exciting possibilities, it also brings forth challenges – ethical, legal, and social. It is essential to develop and deploy generative AI in a responsible and trustworthy manner, respecting human values, rights, and dignity, and ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability. As a global technology company and a pioneer in AI research and innovation, Microsoft is committed to advancing and supporting responsible AI in collaboration with industry and civil society stakeholders, and among policy makers.
With our extensive Austrian partner network and deep customer relationships across the region, Microsoft is well placed to help bring stakeholders together. Our mission is to empower every person and every organisation to use and trust our technology. It’s both a privilege and responsibility that informs our approach to AI.
Our investment in the country’s first full cloud data center is not only a response to the increasing demand for advanced cloud and AI technologies, but also a clear commitment to digital sovereignty and sustainable growth in our country. Our data center region will provide access to cutting-edge technologies for all businesses and green growth in Austria.
There is, of course, no single right approach how to best govern AI. However, after several years of working to ensure our own AI systems are safe, secure, and trustworthy, we offer our ideas and suggestions as a company to empower other organizations on their responsible AI journey.
The opportunities are boundless, and the time to seize them is now. The industry is just starting to scratch the surface on ways in which AI can generate value. Together let us shape the future and unlock the full power of AI in our communities and economies.