President Biden’s recent Executive Order (EO) on Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a directive, setting a framework for the development of AI technologies. Its influence will significantly impact how we as communication professionals undertake our day-to-day tasks and articulate the vision and utilization of AI within the companies we serve. Understanding the facets of the EO, as it evolves into policies, will be crucial for internal and external communications teams to shape strategies that resonate with authenticity and transparency, thereby fostering trust among all stakeholders.
Safety Standards and Informed Communication
As government and corporate policies take shape, decision-makers will look to their communication leaders to comprehend, shape, and disseminate the implications of AI on the organization’s interactions with teams and the public. Communication professionals must grasp AI and its resulting standards well enough to convey its meaning to stakeholders through informative messages. This is essential to reassure stakeholders of a commitment to safety and reliability in AI implementation. Finding the right external partner, who truly understands AI and its impact on people and business, to support the development of accurate AI narratives could be useful.
Addressing Equity
Given the order’s focus on preventing AI algorithms from perpetuating bias and discrimination, communication leaders must also stress the importance of incorporating and addressing how AI activities undertaken by the organizations they represent account for bias and discrimination when guiding organizational leaders. This emphasis is crucial for both internal and external communications, particularly in addressing evolving AI policies related to hiring practices, data usage, and employee growth (up/reskilling).
Privacy and Data Protection in Communications
With companies focusing on privacy-preserving techniques and data protection aligned with the EO, communication professionals will need to revamp communication plans, especially those involving consumer and personal data usage. Organizational shifts in data collection and usage will significantly influence communication campaigns. Striking a balance between informative communication and privacy concerns will be crucial for fostering trust.
Embracing Change and Upholding Credibility
Despite concerns about potential operational constraints, historical precedents, such as GDPR, eventually led to workable solutions. For communication leaders, offering unwavering support and advocating for clear, empathetic communication supported by company actions will be fundamental.
Staying On Top of Rapid Shifts in AI Development
The AI industry is in a state of constant evolution, and we are only just beginning to comprehend its implications for individuals, businesses, and government. Amidst various concurrent initiatives, staying abreast of these changes and comprehending their profound impact can be challenging. That’s why partnering with a communications expert deeply rooted in the AI landscape becomes crucial for crafting and steering an effective, AI-focused communications strategy.
The evolving AI landscape necessitates strategic and ethical communication approaches. Communication professionals play a pivotal role in shaping dialogues and guiding public understanding and acceptance of AI’s role in our future. Our proactive involvement will be essential in navigating this ever-transforming terrain.
Check out this article featured on PRWeek.
