Industry Outlook 2025: Consolidating Data and Relaxing Regulations on AI
In an interview with Pharmaceutical Technology®, Mike Baird from Schlafender Hase gives his predictions for how AI and ML may find use in the industry moving forwards and provides some predictions about M&A and the changing US government administration.
As the technology agenda progresses for industry, Mike Baird, director of product management for Schlafender Hase, a German software company, expects the primary impact of advanced tools to happen in the compliance space. “AI [artificial intelligence] is a very generic term,” he emphasizes. “But machine learning and large language models in particular are going to be at the forefront of this [trend], because that's where all the data can be consolidated.”
However, the transition to automated and digital-led processes will not happen overnight, Baird asserts. “[These tools] are like babies, and we have to teach them how to do things,” he says. “And so, once the teaching is in place, and once we get the models trained, then they can really help in this area of compliance and adhering to regulations.
Looking at the potential M&A activity for industry over the coming 12 months, Baird anticipates that if interest rates continue to go down, then we should be looking at a more favorable landscape in the near future. However, the change in government administration in the United States also leads to a little bit of uncertainty, he adds.
The new administration may lead to some challenges, particularly around drug pricing, Baird speculates. “[But], going back to the technology side of things, one thing that I'm not certain of, but I think might be a good prediction, is that there'll be a relaxation in the regulations surrounding AI,” he notes. “I think this administration is a big supporter of technology, which is great, but also a big supporter of AI, and where that can take us, and what that can do for the for the industry.”
Click above to watch the full interview
About the speaker
Mike Baird, Director of Product Management for Schlafender Hase
Mike Baird is Director of Product Management for Schlafender Hase—a German software company. Mike’s role is to develop software to meet and exceed the needs of customers. He has more than 25 years of experience working with global packaging, labelling, pre-media, and artwork management leaders in the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors.
