SAi and Oxford U. Collaborate on Artificial Intelligence Research Project

Salt Lake City-based SAi (SA International), a provider of software solutions for industries including sign-making, large-format digital printing and CAD/CAM for machining, is partnering with the UK’s Oxford University to undertake a three-year research project that will explore the possibility of developing an artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted software solution.

The company says that if successful, it would be the first AI tool of its kind within the sign industry.

During the initial stage, researchers from the university’s Department of Engineering Science will use aggregate data to determine the common trends and behavior of sign designers. If clear patterns emerge, a software which aids large-format print providers and sign and display companies when designing signage could be brought to market in the future.

SAi says the benefits of the software could include inspiring designers with suggestions, including best-practice fonts, images and layouts. In addition, it could have the potential of streamlining workflow and therefore reducing costs.

“We are very excited about the potential of this AI research as it represents another move to bring new technologies to the sign industry,” says Gudrun Bonte, vice president of product management at SAi. “After all, pushing the frontiers of innovation to develop tools that will make the lives of our customers easier, is what SAi is all about.”

She adds, “Businesses are often compromised by the time-consuming design phase, with very little of the costs transferred to their customers. With AI, print providers and sign shops may also be able to recruit designers from a wider pool of applicants. This will secure more time and resources to dedicate to increasing their profit margins and revenue streams.”