Five AI Questions for Government Agency Leaders
Government agency leaders are navigating a new age. Somewhere between all of the hype and the fear lies significant opportunity. What might they need to consider right now?
Government rightly doesn't want to be left behind on AI - the opportunities are real. But adopting AI for its own sake could lead to problems too. As an agency leader, here are a few questions I'd be asking right now.
🔎 How are we already using AI?
From AI embedded in productivity apps, to larger investments, building a comprehensive picture of AI's current footprint in your organisation is always a good starting point.
🔎 Do we really need AI for this?
The Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation recommends asking: "Is AI really the solution? Would another tested technology be just as good for your problem?" This is solid advice. There's no point adding unnecessary complications.
🔎 Do we need to be doing this at all?
In all the excitement, proposals and initiatives can take on a life of their own. Are AI projects aligned with organisational strategy? If it's exploratory, or on the leading-edge, it needs to be tightly ring-fenced.
🔎 How will we know AI made a real difference?
Are we clear on the public value being delivered, or are we relying on ROI white papers and vendor 'research' to justify this? "Studies show..." is not a benefit realisation plan. How will we define and measure value, right here, on the ground?
🔎 What does AI trust and transparency look like?
Public interest is likely to be on a spectrum, with lower interest in how AI tools improve daily work, and far higher interest in AI that impacts the public personally. Check out the draft Public Service AI Trust Model I posted up for discussion if this is something you are also thinking about.
As AI conversations shift from a sense of novelty to a sense of necessity, these questions may separate agencies that thrive in the new age from those that struggle. What would you add to the list?
