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Databricks’ new AI agent tells CEO Ali Ghodsi the unvarnished truth
Databricks has updated its Genie AI agent to handle extended, multi-step tasks using company information for context. CEO Ali Ghodsi demonstrated how he uses it to surface problems and assess decisions, arguing that agents can give leaders candid information they may not hear directly as companies grow.
Ghodsi used Genie to analyse weak points in an employee survey, evaluate proposed fixes, summarise a failed sales pitch and prepare for an interview. Databricks has about 12,000 employees; Ghodsi invoked Dunbar’s number of 150 to explain why leaders at larger firms may lose direct relationships with staff. He said Unity Gateway can help control agent costs by setting usage limits and switching to less expensive open-weight models.
In short
- Genie can complete multi-step business tasks using company data.
- Ghodsi uses it to uncover problems and evaluate proposed solutions.
- Databricks says Unity Gateway can help limit AI costs.
Explained simply
Databricks is a technology company that sells tools for storing, processing and analysing data, as well as software for building AI systems. Its chief executive, Ali Ghodsi, leads a company with about 12,000 employees, where it is difficult for senior leaders to have direct relationships with everyone.
Genie is Databricks’ AI assistant, designed to answer questions using a company’s own information. The idea behind using it for management tasks is that staff surveys, sales records and other internal material can help leaders spot patterns and review decisions.
As AI agents take on longer tasks, companies also have to manage how much they cost and what information they can use. Databricks says Unity Gateway can set limits on agent use and route tasks to less expensive AI models.
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