Introducing SmartRisk: a neuro-symbolic approach to professional judgment

 

 

Author: Karim Derrick
Contact: Joe Cunningham

17-03-25

 Part 5 of the Kennedys IQ SmartRisk Series

As professional services evolve in the AI era, the challenge remains: how do we integrate AI into complex decision-making without sacrificing explainability, accuracy, or trust? In this fifth instalment of our Kennedys IQ SmartRisk Series, we explore the neuro-symbolic approach behind SmartRisk—a unique fusion of Large Language Models (LLMs) and structured decision logic that revolutionizes professional judgment.

The problem with pure AI models in decision-making

While LLMs have demonstrated impressive text-processing capabilities, their application in professional judgment remains problematic due to:

  1. Lack of logical reasoning – LLMs generate outputs based on probability rather than structured decision logic.
  2. Inconsistent decision-making – Responses can vary, leading to uncertainty in professional applications.
  3. Opaque justifications – AI-generated outcomes often lack explainability, making them difficult to trust in high-stakes environments.

The SmartRisk solution: combining AI and structured decision-making

SmartRisk bridges this gap through a neuro-symbolic AI approach, combining:

  • LLMs for Attribute Extraction – AI scans and extracts key attributes from documents, such as claims and policies.
  • Evidential Reasoning (ER) & Belief Rule Base (BRB) – A structured framework that integrates AI insights into a transparent, rules-based decision system.

This method ensures that AI-driven assessments are not only efficient but also explainable, structured, and auditable—key requirements in claims handling, underwriting, and legal decision-making.

Why neuro-symbolic AI matters for insurance and legal professionals

Unlike pure AI systems, SmartRisk combines machine learning with human-like reasoning, allowing insurers and legal experts to:

  • Ensure consistency – AI-driven insights align with predefined professional rules and heuristics.
  • Eliminate bias and hallucination – BRB corrects AI inconsistencies and ensures data-driven accuracy.
  • Provide full decision explainability – Each AI-assisted recommendation includes a clear breakdown of logic and evidence used.

The future of AI in professional judgment

By augmenting human expertise rather than replacing it, SmartRisk sets a new standard for AI-assisted professional services. It provides the speed and efficiency of AI while ensuring the structured reasoning of expert decision-making.

Next: ensuring efficacy, anonymization, and explainability in AI-driven decisions

In our final article of the series, we will explore how SmartRisk ensures robust efficacy testing, data anonymization, and full decision explainability, making it the most trusted AI system for professional judgment.

Join the SmartRisk launch event:

In March 19th, Kennedys IQ will unveil SmartRisk, the first hybrid AI system designed for professional services. Be part of the transformation in risk assessment and claims decisioning.

Register today

An unmissable event at The Steel Yard: the official launch of Kennedys IQ SmartRisk

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