Quantum computing: new potentials for automated machine learning
Quantum computing makes it possible to advance computationally intensive technologies such as machine learning (ML). In the "AutoQML" project, eight partners from research and industry are therefore developing solution approaches that link quantum computing and ML. An open-source platform is intended to enable developers to use quantum machine learning algorithms without in-depth specialist knowledge. The Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA is playing a major role in the project and [...]
New approach: quantum computing takes machine learning to a new level
The approach of automated machine learning (AutoML) counteracts these challenges and facilitates the use of AI for specialists. In particular, the choice of concrete ML algorithms is automated. Users thus have to deal with and know less about ML and can focus more on their actual processes. In this context, quantum computing marks a breakthrough into a new technological era, as it can significantly improve the AutoML approach. In addition, quantum computing provides the computing power often required for AutoML. The joint project "AutoQML" takes this innovation as its starting point and pursues two main goals: First, the new AutoQML approach is being developed. This will be extended by newly developed quantum ML algorithms. Second, quantum computing raises the AutoML approach to a new level, because certain problems can be solved faster with the help of quantum computing than with conventional algorithms. Led by the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO, the project gives developers simplified access to conventional and quantum ML algorithms via an open-source platform. In addition to Fraunhofer, the companies GFT Integrated Systems, USU Software AG, IAV GmbH Ingenieursgesellschaft Auto und Verkehr, KEB Automation KG, TRUMPF Werkzeug-maschinen GmbH + Co. KG and Zeppelin GmbH are participating in the project. The solutions developed will be tested on the basis of specific use cases from the automotive and production sectors.The best of both worlds: Software library for hybrid total solutions
The project consortium will integrate components of quantum computing into current machine learning solution approaches in order to be able to use the performance, speed and complexity advantages of quantum algorithms in an industrial context. In the so-called AutoQML-Developer Suite - a software library - developed quantum ML components and methods will be brought together in the form of a toolbox and made available to developers in an open-source platform. This will enable users to apply machine learning and quantum machine learning and to develop hybrid overall solutions. The project will run for three years. Further market dissemination by the corporate partners will enable the transfer of research-based high-technology to a broad industrial environment with the aim of significantly strengthening Germany as an industrial location. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection. More information: http://www.autoqml.ai/This article originally appeared on m-q.ch - https://www.m-q.ch/de/quantencomputing-neue-potenziale-fuer-automatisiertes-maschinelles-lernen/
Donald Schneider is considered the inventor of collaboration in marketing. In 2004, he launched perhaps the most important campaign in the company's history for H&M. He initiated a joint collection between H&M and Karl Lagerfeld. In doing so, he firmly established collaboration as a marketing tool.
Today, brands such as Chloé, Boss, H&M, H&M Home, Highsnobiety, About You, Pandora and Zalando join his client list. He is a speaker at the Swiss Brand Congress on June 13. In advance, we met him for a short interview.
Mr. Schneider, you are considered the inventor of collaboration marketing. You invented the game. How do you play it?
Donald Schneider: To remain culturally relevant as a fashion or lifestyle brand in the future, collaborations and special drops are more important than ever. And that's exactly what we specialize in with our Creative Studio, from idea to implementation.
One of your most recent campaigns includes a collaboration with Kendall Jenner for About You. Your secret to success working with such superstars?
Over the years, we have built up a super network and have collaborated and campaigned with many international celebrities. Personal contacts are the be-all and end-all in our industry.
In your view, when should a company stick with influencer marketing, and when would you rather recommend collaborations?
It depends on a client's expectations. After all, we specialize in big bangs to take a brand to the next level. With large global collaborations and the associated individually orchestrated 360-degree campaign activations. At the so-called "secondary level", this usually includes global and local influencer marketing.
What do the two partners need to make a collaboration a success?
Clearly, first and foremost, you need a brilliant idea and concept! We see this as the starting point of our work. Only then do we look for the perfect partner. Then it is important to work closely together to develop a very special and authentic product. Plus story creation and a strong hype campaign. These are completely different mechanisms than traditional marketing.
Most collaborations today are in the fashion sector. Do you see opportunities for other industries as well?
Absolutely! We do collaboration projects for a wide range of customers, including in the lifestyle sector, jewelry, home & living, and automotive. Basically, I see great potential for this in almost all industries.
What do you look for when choosing a collaboration partner? what are no-gos?
The most important thing is that a collaboration partner catches fire, and of course that usually has to do with our brilliant idea. And often with a lot of personal persuasion.
What conditions must a product manufacturer create in order to be attractive to partners?
Making large successful collaborations is very complex and not to be underestimated. In the process, the product manufacturer must be open to thinking differently and working differently. 
Pro Senectute is committed to a self-determined and meaningful life for older people in our society. The organization stands for active participation in events as well as care at home while carefully taking into account the challenges that aging brings. This is a balancing act that is approached with activating confidence and down-to-earth empathy under the claim "Stronger together.
This tension was also a central theme in the development of the sound identity. "It was important to us that the Pro Senectute sound is fresh and activating and appeals to everyone. At the same time, it should come across as unagitated, friendly and warm-hearted: "Getting older is not always fun," explains Peter Burri Follath, Head of Communications at Pro Senectute Switzerland.
In the process, the warm and earthy sound of the dulcimer, played by Valais luminary Ephraim Salzmann, in combination with acoustic blues guitar, has become the cornerstone of the Pro Senectute Sound Identity. Both instruments are well known in Switzerland, but the unusual texture in the interplay makes you sit up and take notice.
The Sound Identity is already in use at several touchpoints. One of them is the just launched "Wie Läbsch?", which guides the listener through stories by the targeted use of sound elements. Furthermore, the Service Center Experience was redesigned and prepared for specific target groups. A flexible soundscape is now available for multimedia content, for example in the current film on QR billing). The audio distillate of the Pro Senectute Switzerland brand - the audio logo - rounds off the sound asset range.
"The result completes the impact of our brand and reinforces the emotional clarity of our communication," says Tatjana Kistler, media officer and deputy head of communications at Pro Senectute, about the new sound identity. "And it was really exciting and a real job enrichment to focus on the impact of sound with DoN!"
