UBC Theoretical Computer Science Seminar: Mark Schmidt

Abstract: In 2016 we wrote a paper introducing the phrase ``Polyak-Lojasiewicz (PL) condition'' for an old idea, not being sure how people would react to the paper. The paper ultimately had a larger impact than we expected, and we are surprised and honoured to receive the 2026 PKDD ECML Test of Time Award. This note informally and candidly discusses what we would like to tell people about the PL condition after 10 years of hindsight. We take a look back at the origins of the paper, give an AI-assisted refined version of the main theorem, discuss criticisms of the work, and finally discuss a variety of related ideas and extensions.