Introduction
The potential of AI and its use in government
Because the use of artificial intelligence (AI) is new to most governments, it raises a considerable number of fears and questions: Am I going to lose my job? If so, when? Can I really be replaced? What do I do now? What about data security? How do we put safeguards around the information that goes into, or comes out of, our AI systems? How do we train for AI? The list of questions goes on and on.
Historically, governments have lagged behind the private sector in the implementation of new technologies, such as AI. Where AI is in place in government, it is often on a small-scale, exploratory basis, which contrasts with sections of the private sector that are utilising AI at full scale. The benefits of AI for the public sector must pass the litmus test of ensuring optimal use of taxpayer dollars while providing necessary and desired services to citizens. Through effective policymaking, thinking creatively about delivery of services (e.g., tax collection and reporting, utility service details, public safety), and improving operations, AI adoption can be a viable investment of resources for the public sector.
This report will provide an overview of the value of AI in government, examine how your peers are successfully utilising AI, and reveal some tips gleaned from their experiences. There are also some actionable items for consideration as you move your AI journey forwards.
