We all rely on Apps for most of our decision making. But, how do we know the app is providing the correct answer?
The stories about spreadsheet errors are legendary and are usually the result of human ‘data entry’ or ‘calculation’ errors. However, software can be the root cause for problems. Software bugs are classified into three types:
- Software Defects by its Nature–The type of software, its functionality and role it plays with other software applications.
- Software Defects by its Priority–The likelihood of a severe impact on the software program.
- Software Defects by its Severity–The impact a defect can have on operations, other integrated packages, etc.
Regardless of the software defect/error type, or caused by human misuse or data input issues, the results can be devastating. The following 3.38 minute video does a good job presenting a high-level overview on this subject which is probably the level of detail a layperson should have on this subject.
I Give, How Would I Know?
The navigation system in my 2015 SUV routinely tells me that I have arrived at my destination a block or more before I actually have. I know this from experience and expect this error. However, we do not often have this level of visibility into the output of software.
The long-time classic IT response to a question is, “It Depends.” The argument meaning, that the answer is unknowable and I need more information. This response from your IT division or third party contractors is totally irresponsible. For example, they need to go find out and report back that Gaps exist and need to be addressed.
If I am completing my expense account on my portal and the total sum seems incorrect, it is not the end of the world and this can easily be remedied. If the decision has greater consequences or is risky, additional assessment should be sought. For example:
- If the recommendation is based on the output of a spreadsheet or other app output is critical, have a neutral third party independently arrive at a conclusion. It they agree, probably OK, if not more assessment is warranted. If the discussion is, ‘We don’t have time,’ then perhaps the response to the decision to the question is NO!
- Decision makers need to look at the three software issues listed above and answer the internal answer as to the impact of the software. Not just the possibility of errors or incorrect calculations but the test of the impact on the organization if errors exists. The CloudStrike episode is a case in point where that organization did not take Version Management professionally.
- Finally, does the answer pass the ‘Smell Test?’ What do your experts say about the output; by they way they can be wrong.
Much of this is subjective, but decision makers should treat this technology as the do with other technologies. IT solutions can have a high impact on the firm, yet they can be disastrous as well. The ultimate test; IT indicatives/decisions must be scrutinized with the same degree as any other corporate level decision.
For the complex AI derived responses, the opinion writer suggests the humans trying to decipher this data, look to the Scientific Method. This is tried approach to problem solving and even if only AI can provide an answer, the process to get this answer needs to be understood.
This scientist was trained during the slide rule era. As such we needed to understand the problem and how it would be solved, rather that an answer spit out from a computer. This skill set needs to be resurrected in the AI era.
Are you assured your software is accurate? How do you know?
For More Information
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The author’s credentials in this field are available on his LinkedIn page. Moreover, Dr. Shemwell is a coauthor of the just published book, “Smart Manufacturing: Integrating Transformational Technologies for Competitiveness and Sustainability.” His focus is on Operational Technologies.
“People fail to get along because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don’t know each other; they don’t know each other because they have not communicated with each other.” (Martin Luther King speech at Cornell College, 1962). For more information on Cross Cultural Engagement, check out our Cross Cultural Serious Game. You can contact this author as well.
For more details regarding climate change models, check out Bjorn Lomborg ands his latest book, False Alarm: How Climate Change Panic Costs Us Trillions, Hurts the Poor, and Fails to Fix the Planet.
Regarding the economics of Climate Change, check out our blog, Crippling Green.
For those start-up firms addressing energy (including renewables) challenges, the author can put you in touch with Global Energy Mentors which provide no-cost mentoring services from energy experts. If interested, check it out and give me a shout.