The newest, hottest buzz word today is AI. Not even words, an acronym …. which is very fitting for our acronym filled world. Many people have been quick to try out one of the new generative AI tools and now the question becomes “What do I do with this?”. Unfortunately, the term “AI” has quickly become a catch-all term for tools we already use as well as the new ones. AI is used to describe:
Workflows
Algorithms
Large language models
Generative document platforms
Search tools
Collaborative tools
Analytical tools
Machine learning
In the past we did not group under a single umbrella formulas for data analysis, document approval workflows, and a machine searching the internet to gather information and return a report. Now, we do group these together and call it all AI.
The AI explosion has brought to the forefront the criticality of managing an organization’s information. From the creation of new documents to searching for records to analyzing data to generating reports, the information asset has come into the spotlight as being one of the most valuable, and vulnerable, assets in an organization.
We must implement governance for this asset in order to protect it. An AI policy may define what digital tools and methods are and are not acceptable for use. This will be unique for each organization based on the business model, strategy, and company culture. A one-size fits all policy created by a generative AI model, will not be sufficient. Moreover, this is only one element of a comprehensive Information Governance program. Defining how the organization wants to adopt additional AI tools is critical, but in and of itself, this will not comprehensively protect information assets. An Information Governance program that protects the entire information lifecycle is required.
The use of document approval workflows has been in existence for many years as well as the use of algorithms and formulas for data evaluation. Generative models for searching and aggregating information are new. All of these concepts are now generically referred to as AI and every organization must define how to adopt and use these tools so as to protect its information assets.
IM Visibility is here to help with all your Information Management needs providing visibility and protection to your organization’s greatest asset…. INFORMATION.
If you simply need someone to consult with as you develop your AI policy, then the Information NOW program may be for you. Click here to learn about the Information NOW Program!