Advanced methods of machine learning have paved the way for a new generation of medical and clinical research. New methods and data resources can offer better diagnostics, new therapeutics, and disease management. Conditions such as ALS are uniquely suited to benefit from these strategies, but there are important considerations. From the basics of what makes these new technologies special and applicable, to how they are being researched and they may impact life with disease, we will talk about some implementations of these techniques in both multi-center studies to a patient managing their own care.