Senior Data Scientist Ahmad Kazi recently represented Alder Hey Innovation at the 2025 Automation & AI in Action event. A hands-on technology showcase delivered by Digpacks, in collaboration with NHS England and Microsoft.
Hosted in Leeds, the event brought together digital leaders, developers and innovators from across NHS to explore how AI, automation and the Microsoft Power Platform apps are transforming clinical, operational and administrative processes. Delegates had the opportunity see real-world examples in action, understand how other Trusts are scaling low-code solutions and experience first-hand how automation can meaningfully reduce manual workload across healthcare services.
Breaking the traditional mould
A key focus for Alder Hey Innovation in attending the event, was to deepen our understanding of how NHS can move from traditional, standalone development approaches into modern low/no-code technologies, enhanced by AI. This shift is critical to enabling the Trust’s Vision 2030 ambitions, supporting faster more personalised care.
Key Outcomes from the Event
Attendance at the event generated several valuable insights and opportunities for Alder Hey:
1. A clear vision for NHS data platform transformations
Ahmad gained an improved understanding of how technologies such as Databricks, Microsoft Cloud and AI stack are helping Trusts to modernise their data platforms, along with the challenges, benefits and lessons learnt from early adoption.
2. Rich discussion in automation and Copilot in the NHS
Demonstrations throughout the event sparked meaningful conversation about how Microsoft Copilot and intelligent automation can be safely, effectively and rapidly integrated into NHS.
3. Creating a “Value-Based Backlog” for smarter prioritisation
The event highlighted the importance of categorising digital solutions by value, feasibility and alignment to the Trusts priorities. This structured approach supports better decision making when choosing whether solutions should be developed by individuals, internal teams or specialist partners.
4. Strengthened collaboration and new contacts
Useful new relationships were formed throughout the event, supporting future partnership opportunities.
Ahmad Kazi, Senior Data Scientist said:
Attending this event really opened my mind. It wasn’t just an event about the visions, it was about the stories of these concepts being in motion and revolutionising parts of the NHS.
Throughout the event, I was able to note companies dedication to automation and how such innovation is key in ensuring optimal efficiency and reduction of bottlenecks. Seeing these examples, proved that this innovative technology is freeing up massive amounts of time for what really matters.”