Artificial Intelligence is becoming more advanced as people discover the importance of using technology to interact with customers with chat bots, applying intelligence to automate processes, or applying technology to improve the accuracy of financial forecasts. The examples of AI are ever increasing, and becoming more important with every day. As with any new technology, there is the problem of working ethically by making AI algorithms and robots that benefit society and people.
Consider these five ethical methods of using AI systems in your organisation:
1. Set realistic expectations
A common mistake is to over-invest in technology that has not been properly tested yet. When you’re starting out with new technology like artificial intelligence, keep your expectations realistic and make small goals at first that grow bigger over time. Start with a proof of concept and value on single use case, and build from there. In addition, do not avoid taking risks because you are afraid of failure or criticism.
2. Maintain the balance between humans and automation
The biggest concern with artificial intelligence is that robots will replace humans at work. To dispel this myth, keep as many of your staff members as you possibly can. Avoid informing them that they are being replaced by machines that will perform better jobs. You need real humans to make repairs in case an automated system breaks down. During a storm-related blackout, you need people to fill in the roles that cannot be performed by non-functioning machines. So keeping the balance between people and automation, whilst driving value for the business is key.
3. Do not over-rely on AI
Systems Automation bias occurs when humans blindly trust automated systems to make all of the decisions for them, even if they are incorrect. Humans over-rely on computers and software to tell them what to do. An example is the use of a calculator that is designed to be correct every time. Few people believe that a calculator will give inaccurate information. However, every machine malfunctions and creates errors that humans must fix. When using automated tools, tell your workers about this phenomenon of automation bias and teach them ways to overcome it.
4. Look for data bias
Biased data, also known as misinformation, is present everywhere in the media. An artificial machine has the power to detect and stop bias, but it may end up creating and promoting more of it instead. Some automated systems generate responses based on past existing data. This method is only half accurate. Data changes significantly over time based on current trends in society. For data to be accurate and relevant in the future, it must reflect these changes. So, program your computerised systems to work with the most recently updated data, information, and algorithms.
5. Have a framework and agree digital ethics & AI principles
Having a framework for your ethics policy to apply to technologies, such as AI, will help embed thinking in your team and bring the ethics agenda top of mind when implementing new technology. This shift in mindset and culture of the organisation is a great indicator of maturity of capability and will drive the right thinking and actions in the organisation. It will also give you a baseline to be able to measure your progress and set goals and direction for your teams working on these projects.
When people think of artificial intelligence, they think of as many disadvantages as they think of advantages. On one hand, this automated technology is fascinating and efficient to use at home or work. On the other hand, some people may program robots incorrectly, spread misinformation about their capabilities, or use them to serve their own selfish purposes. When designing AI systems, it’s necessary that you remember the importance of working ethically and for the good of the greater community.
Deltabase can help
As part of our 1,000-point 6-factor Deltabase assessment, we look at Digital Ethics as part of a capability assessment to look at how far companies have got in adopting technologies such as AI, and how far they have developed ethics to support that. Our reports help you understand the capability of a company and identify the things you can do to increase that maturity and level up against your peers, and the expert peer-set of leading companies, giving you an action plan and set of opportunities to fill the gap and realise full digital potential.
If you want to find out more about how Deltabase intelligence and benchmarking can help you on your journey, then we’d love to talk to you, so get in touch: