What, exactly, do we want AI to do in our organizations? This crucial question was addressed at The Leading Edge: AI & Data Analytics in E&C event, exploring safe and effective AI implementation.
The Foundational Question for AI Implementation
Keynote speaker Jen Gennai, Google’s former head of responsible innovation, emphasized that many organizations bypass a critical initial step: clearly defining the desired purpose of AI. She noted that teams often rush into AI adoption propelled by pressure from the C-Suite and board, intense competitive environments, and a general fear of falling behind technologically, rather than a well-thought-out strategy.
Top-Down Pressure for AI Adoption
A joint survey by Compliance Week and konaAi, involving over 190 compliance professionals, revealed that the push for AI implementation largely originates from the top. A significant 63 percent of respondents reported that directives to adopt AI tools came directly from either their organization's board or the C-Suite, indicating a strong executive-level drive behind current AI initiatives.
Empowering Compliance in AI Development
Speakers at the event advised compliance professionals to proactively engage with AI, continuously expand their knowledge, and position themselves as coaches, guides, and indispensable strategic partners during the implementation of AI tools. By integrating compliance perspectives from the very beginning, professionals can foster trust among colleagues and navigate the evolving challenges of AI development collectively, acknowledging that everyone is learning through this process.
Building Trust and Ethical Frameworks for AI
Ann Skeet, representing Santa Clara University’s Markkula Center for Applied Ethics, led an insightful discussion focusing on the measures businesses should undertake to address the inherent trust issues associated with AI, particularly generative AI. She stimulated dialogue on practical steps organizations can implement to guarantee that the deployment and ongoing use of AI tools are conducted in the most ethical manner possible, prioritizing responsible innovation.
