In 2023, Namirial launched the AI Lab, an innovation laboratory that serves as an annual challenge, dedicated to the developers of the Group from all locations. This event is a key opportunity to explore the potential of artificial intelligence and tackle real-world problems by integrating AI into our daily activities. Our goal is to innovate and create solutions that not only improve our products but also optimize internal processes.
The AI Lab is a true development marathon, where the most enterprising Namirials and industry professionals come together to participate in intense work sessions. During the hackathon, participants have the opportunity to collaborate, share knowledge, and work on innovative projects, all within an atmosphere of creativity and competition. After three successful editions, this initiative is designed to challenge teams with real-world problems, stimulating the creation of advanced technological solutions with a tangible impact.
To delve deeper into the value of this initiative, we interviewed Davide Coletto, CTO of Namirial, who shared his insights on the evolution of hackathons and the future of artificial intelligence in the company.
Namirial has already organized three editions of this AI-focused hackathon. Can you tell us how these events have evolved?
Certainly! Our hackathons have followed the technological milestones of generative AI. In the first hackathon, we explored the first available tools on the market, such as Large Language Models (LLMs) in their basic form, using them without any pre-processing of data. In the second edition, we refined the use of AI, realizing that LLMs are just a part of the equation. Data management and normalization, as well as the creation of databases, became essential for building technologies and developing products in the AI world.
In the most recent edition, we focused on generative AI and, particularly, the use of advanced technologies like Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG). These systems, which use vector databases, are crucial for building the databases needed to optimize LLMs. Thanks to these technologies, we noticed a significant improvement in the quality of the generated responses, utilizing the data already available in the company, such as financial documentation or product manuals.
Why did you decide to involve external partners like AWS and MongoDB?
The decision to collaborate with AWS and MongoDB was strategic. They are among our most important technological partners, and they supported us in the development of LLM and RAG technologies. We collaborate with them because they share our vision and invest heavily in research and development. Moreover, they are market leaders in their sector, and their support is essential for the success of our projects.
What is the value of the hackathon in terms of training and idea validation?
The hackathon format has proven to be extremely effective for validating innovative ideas and, above all, for team training. In just 24 hours, participants immerse themselves in technologies that would normally require weeks or months to be understood. Thanks to the support of our partners, teams learn to use these technologies in record time, which is crucial in a constantly evolving field like AI.
What are Namirial’s future plans for hackathons?
Namirial will continue organizing AI-focused hackathons, also exploring related technologies like RAGs and vector databases. Generative AI is one of the most disruptive technologies currently available, and we intend to integrate all the innovations emerging in this field into our projects. We are already looking to the future and evaluating how to expand our reach with new technologies.
In conclusion, the Namirial AI LAB Hackathon not only represents an opportunity to innovate and experiment but also an important platform for learning and professional growth. Thanks to Namirial’s dedication to promoting innovation, participants can face AI challenges with greater preparation and creativity.