AI’s Role In Consulting

By Debra Stroschein

Could artificial intelligence (AI) replace a consultant?

In the digital world, AI is bringing forward the ability of a computer or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings, as defined by Britannica. The world population is expected to grow to 10 billion people by 2050, and agriculture will have to maximize production and yields to keep up with this population boom. How can we address the food shortages, use technology to enhance productivity on existing farmland or expand land use by adopting large-scale farming?  

Today, so many obstacles prevent a farmer from achieving maximum productivity. During the past president’s session at the recent NAICC conference, keynote speaker Ray Starling asked attendees about the issues we face today. Several issues were raised. They included limited land holdings, labor shortages, environmental issues, water issues and diminishing soil fertility. Agriculture today evolves so quickly, and the industry is very innovative. Constantly, new technologies are available to improve efficiency and yield.  

Can AI Help? 
Can data-based decisions fit in the agricultural world? Can AI replace a person such as a consultant? Can a computer pick up the meticulous insights, thoughts, talents and experience a seasoned consultant brings to clients? The consultant knows the history and the little details of the field that the computer may only have an opportunity to pick up on the data entered into it.  

Many clients also prefer the face-to-face interaction and wealth of knowledge their consultants offer relative to technology-based solutions. For example, a client may choose a seasoned consultant who works long hours instead of one who flies a drone to the field, sends the information to his phone and writes the recommendation from home. 

Another example of AI is auto traps, which automatically count insect moths. Here’s an example of how they’re used with navel orangeworms. A picture is taken daily, and the number of worms is counted. The bottom of the trap rolls daily. This sounds good in theory. However, a few days go by, and on day three, a bird gets caught in the trap, and a second bird lands. Then, the telemetry goes down at the tower and breaks the T-post in half. Turns out a cougar chasing deer had hit the trap. What did the AI technology save the consultant? Nothing. AI can be useful in cases such as capturing soil and fertility data. But then again, you are only as good as your input.  

I feel AI is a tool, but it will not replace the consultant. You can’t use AI to figure out what you know, and you can’t use AI to figure out your talent.