Empowering the public sector to implement responsible AI practices

AI has become a vital tool for organizations and is revolutionizing operations in various sectors. However, the widespread adoption of AI comes with challenges, particularly on trust and ethical considerations. Responsible AI practices are crucial in ensuring the ethical development, transparent use, and accountable implementation of AI systems to minimize potential negative impacts on individuals and society.

In a recent interview, Joseph Castle, PhD, executive advisor for strategic partnerships and technology at SAS, highlights the multifaceted nature of AI, which involves not only the technology itself but also societal, cultural, organizational and tactical considerations.

For government organizations, the challenges lie in operationalizing AI, understanding its implications, managing the data that feeds AI models and establishing policies and regulations. Castle mentions the AI Bill of Rights as an example of emerging policy efforts but notes that there is still much to learn and discover about AI’s potential and how to manage it effectively.

Castle stresses the need for responsible and ethical AI development, particularly in the context of its impact on individuals. He highlights real-life consequences, such as loan applications and job opportunities, which can be influenced by data and AI algorithms.

Regarding the role of private companies like SAS, Castle states that they can assist governments in navigating these challenges and adopting responsible AI practices. SAS has a dedicated data ethics practice and aims to be a leader in responsible AI by building  cultural fluency, offering educational programs, and continuing to enhance SAS’s technology product suite.

Castle highlights the commitment of SAS to develop trustworthy AI solutions and says, “We’ve recently announced that we’re committing $1 billion to AI-powered industry solutions over the next three years—everything we build over the next three years and beyond. We’re taking that into account responsible AI and trustworthy AI, and hopefully, others around us, our competitors, and our partners will do the same. That’s the goal.”

Learn more about taking actionable steps to implement responsible AI practices in your organization and review SAS’s Responsible Innovation webpage.

This video interview was produced by Scoop News Group, for FedScoop, and underwritten by SAS.