Data Science vs Artificial Intelligence: 9 Main Differences to Learn

Data Science and Artificial Intelligence are two of the hottest domains on the planet right now. Still, there are people who fail to understand what both these fields are about. In order to simplify things, here are 9 main differences between Data Science and Artificial Intelligence which can help any individual understand:          

 Definition

First and foremost is the meaning of these terms. Data science refers to the management of big data for visualization and analytics. These functions help companies make more informed strategic decisions. Artificial Intelligence takes this analyzed data a step further by allowing machines to use it. Artificial Intelligence or AI is a component of machine learning.

The skills required

Data Science has more to do with statistics and analysis. The data which is collected is sorted and then broken down according to specific needs through these techniques. Artificial Intelligence focuses more on algorithms and allowing systems to analyze and predict certain functions. A professional has to have algorithm design and development skills for a career in AI.

Type of technique

Type of technique refers to the primary functions which are performed in the field. Data Science utilizes the data analytics technique. On the other hand, AI is a part of Machine Learning so the technique used to execute tasks in also require the same framework. Many people also confuse Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence with one another. The latter is a small part of the former.

Knowledge used

Data Science is mainly a field where a lot of analysis and identification takes place. Data Scientists have to go through mounds of data and pick out the bits which will be helpful in designing and implementing strategies. The purpose of Data Science is to pinpoint patterns in data for decision making. AI is more about incorporating intelligence through data so that machines can make decisions through data.

What is studied and observed

Data Science also differs from Artificial Intelligence in terms of the observations which are used and made during the course of study. Data scientists look for trends which emerge in large data sets. It is their job to draw meanings and insights from raw information so that effective decision making can be done. In AI, professionals are in search of intelligence within data. How a decision was made and what thinking process existed behind it. This is then replicated in algorithms for computer systems.

The issues which are addressed

Data science is mainly looking to solve specific problems. These issues can be pertinent to consumers which a business would want to target or those who already buy their product or service. It can also be used to look for answers about upcoming trends. AI has more to do with perception and planning. It is designed to be as close to the intelligence and decision making in living things.

Data processing

The level of data processing in at an intermediate level. It is not very advanced nor is it low. In Data Science, professionals have to manage and analyze data for manipulation so a medium level of handling is adequate. However, AI requires a high level of order processing for scientific manipulation of data. This is necessary for the degree of effectiveness which AI has to achieve.

Data representation

The difference in data representation is one of the most easily identifiable ones. In Data Science, information is displayed in several graphical formats and other similar types of representation. AI is more focused on representing data in the form of algorithm network nodes because it has to be read and interpreted by machines and not humans.

Elements which are controlled

In Data Science, experts look to control the outcomes of business decisions. The Data Science technique allows management and executives who run businesses to control the way things are done. With Artificial Intelligence users have to establish robotic control and machine learning techniques.

Data Science and Artificial Intelligence are easily distinguished fields. In the former, there is data management which is used in decision making. Artificial Intelligence has more to do with creating systems which can make informed decisions on their own so that certain activities can be performed more efficiently than they are now. 

About The Author

David Odgers