Public sector organisations are increasingly exploring AI to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency. EthicAI helps public sector organisations relate the AI landscape to public values and governance standards. We supported one of our public sector clients upskill their AI knowledge and craft a unified strategy that serves all departments.

Problem

A UK public sector organisation formed an AI Council to anticipate how AI would impact their sector and to consider how they might use AI to enhance their public service delivery. The AI Council struggled to agree on its priorities and adopt an internal AI policy because its members represented stakeholders from different departments and varying levels of knowledge about AI. Without a unified approach, the organisation risked fragmented AI efforts, which could lead to potential inefficiencies and ethical issues.

Solution

Our team designed and facilitated a series of bespoke workshops on the fundamentals of AI ethics and governance for the AI Council and other key stakeholders from the departments. These sessions helped to build a shared understanding of the key issues around AI. We then held consultations and worked closely with the AI Council to understand the needs of each department and identify common goals. Based on these insights, we drafted an encompassing AI policy that set clear priorities and ethical guidelines for AI development and deployment across all departments.

Projected Impact

Through the workshops, the Council enhanced its understanding of the ethical and governance challenges of AI, and the opportunities it offers. Moreover, it helped them identify common ground for the issues they face and how they can collaborate on projects. With this newfound clarity and consensus, the organisation is better prepared to approach AI in ways that are ethical, effective, and reflective of public values.