b'PARTNER CONTENTHow do we Bridge the Gap Between Human Expertise and AI?Experts like those at Seed Check Technologies and the International Seed Morphology Association are working together to create a platform for effective knowledge sharing.I n the ever-evolving landscape of technologicallanguage to facilitate effective communication and, even-advancements, where artificial intelligence and cutting- tually, to empower AI to further enhance seed analysis.edge tools dominate the discussion, its essential toThe journey is not without its challenges, as contribu-recognize the irreplaceable value of human expertise. tors like the staff at Seed Check attest to the learning This is particularly evident in the field of seedcurve of adopting a standardized vocabulary for the seed morphology and the collaborative efforts of organiza- testing industry. The detailed descriptions and protocols tions like the International Seed Morphology Associationprovided by ISMA serve as valuable resources, making (ISMA), which aims to create a platform for knowledgethe transition smoother.By Lisa Greenan,sharing that ultimately benefits anyone who uses theThe collaboration between human expertise and digi-Senior Seedservices of a seed labwhich includes anybody whotal platforms is exemplified in the efforts to train authors Analyst, Seedproduces certified seed. and create a pool of knowledgeable contributors. The Check When ISMA first embarked on its journey in 2018goal is not merely to share knowledge within Canada in response to a shrinking level of expertise in seedbut to contribute to a global repository that benefits the morphology applied in seed identification and purityentire seed industry.analysis, the primary contributions it received were fromFurthermore, seed analysts and the companies they the specialists at CFIA. work for benefit greatly from their collaborations with However, the realization dawned on those involvedISMA, which helps them better serve their customers. I, for in ISMA that relying solely on CFIA was insufficient. Theone, am better able to do my job having honed my seed quest for more comprehensive knowledge-sharing ledmorphology skills through my participation with ISMA.to the development of author protocols, templates, and workshops, laying the foundation for a robust databaseAI and the Value of Human Experienceavailable online from a broader community of seed test- In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is often seen ing or botany. as the future of seed analysis and interpretation, ISMAs A pivotal moment arrived when ISMA initiated col- approach underscores the importance of human knowl-laborations, inviting authors to share their expertise in aedge. AI may be a powerful tool, but it relies on the foun-standardized manner. These authors included the publicdational knowledge provided by experts who understand and private spheres, included seed labs like Seed Checkthe intricacies of seed morphology.Technologies in Alberta. ISMAs platform has become a digital hub for sharing Partnerships with organizations like Seed Check andthe wealth of seed knowledge accumulated over dec-the Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) andades. The collaboration with seed analysts ensures that Society of Commercial Seed Technologists (SCST) havethis knowledge is not confined to labs but is accessible given rise to projects focused on creating fact sheets forglobally, transcending language barriers.various species. The global impact is undeniable, withAs we navigate the intersection of technology and ISMAs reach = extending to over 40 countries. tradition, ISMAs journey reminds us that the roots of innovation are firmly grounded in human expertise. The The Need for a Data Standardization seeds of knowledge planted today have the potential One notable aspect of ISMAs approach is the emphasisto grow into a whole field of understanding, benefitting on standardization. Seed analysts, like those at Seedseed analysts, customers, and the global agricultural Check, often use different languages and vocabulariescommunity alike.to describe seeds. The challenge lies in unifying thisFor more info on ISMA visit idseed.org.JANUARY 2024GERMINATION.CA 35'