Japan based Hitachi, Ltd. on 30 March 2020 announced that on April 1, it will establish the "Lumada(1) Data Science Lab. within the Kyoso-no-Mori(2) facilities at the Central Research Laboratory. This new organization will promote collaborations by bringing together about 100 of the top data scientists - including researchers in the fields of AI and data analytics, and engineers and consultants with a deep knowledge of OT (Operational Technology), which is essential to the application of advanced data science and technologies in work processes - and leveraging their individual skills and expertise.

At the Data Science Lab., these data scientists will use flexible ideas to match technologies with work processes and quickly conduct verification tests, to create new services and technologies that respond to even more complex and advanced customer needs. Also, by incorporating diverse outside knowledge from the world's most advanced customers, partners, and universities, which gather at Kyoso-no-Mori, Hitachi will strive to further improve the value of services through open innovations.

By establishing the Data Science Lab., Hitachi will build a positive spiral of R&D and business in the fields of AI and data analytics, and will foster top data scientists through practical activities involving data applications, expanding the facility's staff to around 200 by FY2021.

The mission of the Data Science Lab. is as follows:
1. Strengthen collaborations among advanced and diverse data scientists
2. Accelerate open innovations
3. Strengthen manpower hiring and training in the AI and analytics fields

By establishing the Data Science Lab. and increasing the individual skills of researchers and engineers in the fields of AI and data analytics, and by promoting collaborations throughout the Group on a global scale, Hitachi will share those technologies and expertise, quickly providing solutions to the front lines of business and society.