From searching to answers: Qlik CTO explains how AI is reshaping data interaction
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the way businesses handle and interact with data. In a recent discussion, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Qlik, a leading data analytics platform, shared insightful perspectives on how AI is revolutionizing data interaction—shifting it from traditional searching to delivering precise, actionable answers.
AI: Beyond Data Search to Insightful Answers
Historically, data users relied heavily on manual search techniques to extract information from complex datasets. This process often involved sifting through vast amounts of data, formulating queries, and interpreting results—tasks that required significant expertise and time.
Qlik’s CTO emphasizes that AI is changing this dynamic fundamentally. Rather than users hunting through data, AI-powered systems now understand the context of queries and directly provide answers, reducing the need for specialized data skills. This shift means data is no longer confined to analysts; it becomes accessible to business users at all levels.
Natural Language Processing Powers Seamless Interaction
A key enabler in this evolution is Natural Language Processing (NLP). Qlik integrates NLP technologies that allow users to interact with data using simple, conversational language. Instead of writing complex queries, users can ask questions like, “What were our sales last quarter in Europe?” and receive instant, accurate responses.
This intuitive interaction democratizes data access, empowering departments such as marketing, finance, and operations to make data-driven decisions without waiting for specialized analysts.
AI Automates Data Preparation and Insight Generation
Beyond querying, AI is also automating many backend processes that traditionally slowed down analytics. According to Qlik’s CTO, AI assists in cleansing, organizing, and enriching data—tasks that used to be time-consuming and prone to errors.
Moreover, AI algorithms automatically surface hidden patterns, anomalies, and trends that might be missed by human analysts. These smart insights help organizations identify new opportunities, anticipate risks, and adapt strategies quickly.
Augmented Intelligence: Collaboration Between Humans and AI
Qlik’s vision of AI isn’t about replacing human intelligence but augmenting it. The CTO highlights the concept of augmented intelligence, where AI tools collaborate with human intuition and expertise. While AI handles data processing and initial insights, humans apply contextual understanding and critical thinking to make informed decisions.
This partnership enhances creativity and strategic planning, leading to more innovative business outcomes.
The Future: AI-Driven Data Culture
The CTO concludes that as AI continues to evolve, companies embracing these technologies will foster a stronger data culture—one where data fluency is widespread, and decision-making is faster and more accurate.
By transforming data interaction from complex searches to straightforward answers, AI is unlocking the full potential of data, turning it into a strategic asset accessible to all.
