How do algorithms work? Algorithms are built to learn from the data sets they are given, but an algorithm is an objective tool and is only as good as the data it is provided, Karray said.

Once they receive inputs, algorithms perform a series of steps to generate outputs. Most algorithms build on other simple processes. In fact, every complex thing you do on a computer could be done ...

When we tested our algorithms with the widely used sample data sets, we were surprised at how well they performed relative to open-source algorithms assembled by IBM.

The biggest opportunities don’t come from people searching for your name. They come when someone’s searching for a solution—and the algorithm decides to introduce you.

Algorithms are proprietary though, and monopolistic within their context (a customer can’t select the algorithm they want to use to assess their credit, for instance).

But we do think that considering these ideas throughout the design, implementation, and release cycles of development will lead to more socially responsible deployment of algorithms in society.

Ready to analyze Google's search algorithms and learn all the secrets of ranking? Here's what you will need to do it correctly.