Using data to predict the future could soon become reality after scientists say it is certainly possible, and that most governments and businesses don't recognise it's importance.

Microsoft UK Director of Business Development Matthew Smith told Mike Hosking he is a big believer in being able to use algorithms to predict anything from economies to traffic to how we manage our resources.

“It can also be applied to human relationships, but you have to be careful. When predicting something, you have to understand how predictable it is in the first place. A range of emotions play an important part in making the most reliable forecast."

LISTEN ABOVE AS MATTHEW SMITH SPEAKS TO MIKE HOSKING