161: The Benefits of ML & AI Hinge on a Common Denominator

Chris Hanton, Director of Digital Transformation Solutions at Ikon Science, discusses the latest insights using machine learning and artificial intelligence. In this conversation with host Andrew Geary, Chris highlights one frequently overlooked variable that can undermine the best technology. He also shares how technologists can ensure data is trustworthy and valuable, when cutting-edge analytics can produce better than the best geophysical minds, and presents the use case for investing in machine learning and AI outside of increased efficiency. Chris also spotlights machine learning's role in addressing climate change and ends with some new developments that will surprise people. This is a deep dive into the role of quality data (https://www.oilandgaseng.com/articles/the-common-denominator-that-analytics-hinge-on/) in cutting-edge work and the best ways to harness the benefits of machine learning and artificial intelligence. BIOGRAPHY Chris Hanton oversees the scoping, management, and delivery of solutions to improve the accessibility, quality, and availability of subsurface data across our client organizations. Chris first joined the industry in 2008, first as a mudlogger before moving into a role as a project petrophysicist, with these positions providing valuable insight to both the potential of data and the all-too-common bottlenecks that organizations face when it comes to extracting maximum value form their information stores. Since joining Ikon in 2018, Chris has worked closely with a range of client organizations varying in size and digital maturity. Chris and his team interact with a variety of stakeholders, covering both end-user and management teams to build pragmatic solutions to data challenges in a timely manner, improving the ability of subsurface teams to action effective decision-making and positively influence the overall business of the client. The delivered solutions look to work efficiently with existing business rules and standards whilst allowing the client to develop new data procedures as necessary. Chris has an MeSci from the University of Liverpool in Geology and an MSci from the University of Aberdeen in Integrated Petroleum Geoscience. CREDITS SEG produces Seismic Soundoff to benefit its members, the scientific community, and inform the public on the value of geophysics. Please leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify to show your support for the show. It takes less than five seconds to leave a 5-star rating and is the number one action you can take to show your appreciation for this free resource. And follow the podcast while you are on the app to be notified when each new episode releases. Original music created by Zach Bridges. Andrew Geary hosted, edited, and produced this episode for 51 features, LLC. Thank you to the SEG podcast team: Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis.