They say the future’s in the cloud. No more so when you add AI to the mix. The intersection of the two is reshaping industries, with a synergy that enables organisations to scale AI solutions, optimise resources, and deliver innovation more quickly.
The cloud provides the essential infrastructure for AI scalability, while AI offers powerful tools to enhance cloud computing, from automating operations to generating data-driven insights.
However, many businesses struggle to implement these technologies effectively, often failing to achieve measurable value. The key to success lies in adopting an approach like Pragmatic AI which focuses on achieving quick, impactful wins without overcomplicating systems or generating unnecessary risks.
It means avoiding the complexities often associated with AI and cloud integration. It helps to scale AI solutions incrementally and manage resources efficiently, particularly in regulated industries such as the public sector, where the stakes are often high.
One notable example of AI and cloud collaboration is when AI-powered facial recognition technology was integrated into the operations of Scotland’s prison system. This collaboration with Scottish Prison Service, led by Exception, shows how cloud solutions and AI can be combined to drive rapid innovation in sectors that demand high security and efficiency.
The existing prison system in Scotland relied on an outdated Oracle-based platform, which was increasingly prone to errors and inefficiencies. With over 8,000 prisoners under its care, the prison service faced significant challenges in maintaining secure, accurate identification and tracking of individuals across its estates. In an environment where misidentification could lead to significant safety risks, SPS recognised the need for a modern solution.
Exception, through its Pragmatic AI philosophy, introduced an AI-powered facial recognition system integrated into a cloud-based serverless architecture using AWS tools. This new system enabled real-time tracking of prisoner movements and automated identification, reducing human error and improving operational efficiency. The cloud infrastructure ensured the solution was scalable, allowing SPS to pay only for the computing power used, significantly reducing costs compared to maintaining legacy systems.
This collaboration highlights the power of combining AI with cloud technology. AI-powered facial recognition not only improved security by ensuring accurate identification but also streamlined day-to-day operations. Cloud solutions provided the flexibility and scalability needed to keep up with evolving demands in the prison system. With the ability to quickly process data and scale up operations, SPS was able to create a safer environment with enhanced staff and inmate safety.
The ability to integrate AI into cloud infrastructure is becoming more essential across industries. AI and cloud are complementing each other in a way that allows businesses to innovate quickly and cost-effectively. The cloud provides the infrastructure needed for AI scalability, enabling organisations to deploy AI models without overhauling existing systems. For example, serverless computing in the cloud enables businesses to only pay for computing resources as needed, lowering costs and increasing efficiency.
In sectors like public services, AI’s potential is immense, but it must be implemented thoughtfully. The Pragmatic AI approach ensures AI solutions are delivered with clear goals, measurable outcomes, and the flexibility to adapt over time. This way, organisations can implement AI that works for their specific needs and budget, reducing risks while delivering value.
The combination of AI and cloud is driving innovation at a pace previously unimaginable, and industries are beginning to see the tangible benefits. Whether it’s improving public sector services like prison safety, optimising customer experiences in retail, or enhancing operational efficiency in healthcare, AI and cloud are proving to be a transformational partnership.
And by focusing on realistic goals and measurable outcomes, the journey towards AI-driven transformation without the risk of unnecessary complexity or failure is possible. Our Pragmatic AI whitepaper is filled with insights, case studies, and strategies that help you implement AI with confidence. Download it today.