While we frequently hear how metadata is used to shape customer experiences, why are more and more in-store music providers coming back to the human touch? Not only are they coming back to the intimacy only afforded by people, but they are being increasingly vocal about the role human interaction plays in curating a memorable experience.

Until we develop technology with an algorithm for picking songs that really make you want to dance, eat, or live, etc. you need humans.

The bottom line: the human influence can’t be replaced, underestimated or marginalized. Nuance and context matter.

This panel will passionately debate the importance of human influence on music playlist design.