Government, AI, and The Future of Business
We live in an ever-evolving world with new technological advancements every year. With the rise of AI and millions of questions and concerns arising, the President just released a pivotal executive order on AI, which is undoubtedly one of the biggest statements released on AI by the government this year. If you have been wondering if AI will stick around, well, it is no longer a question. It is probably a wise decision to pay attention to AI as it is set to become part of reality based on the Executive Order. Here are some of the key takeaways from the Executive order on AI.
AI Safety and Security
This may or may not surprise you, but the executive order was not about whether AI should be used or not. The primary focus was on how we WILL use AI safely. One of the biggest concerns of AI technology is the threat to our safety and security. This Executive order was heavily focused on how we can avoid AI-enabled threats such as the development of dangerous biological materials, AI-generated misinformation/deepfakes, and AI-driven privacy violations. There is even a concern that AI can exacerbate discrimination and biases in sectors like housing, healthcare, and justice. There is a clear focus on protecting people from AI-related harms.
The order is calling for AI developers to run extensive safety tests and send the results to the U.S. government before public release. The order also calls for the development of privacy-preserving techniques and stronger privacy guidance for federal agencies. For the protection of workers, the order calls for a need to develop best practices to mitigate job displacement and uphold fair labor standards in the workplace.
Based on the Executive order, the government is striving to promote the utilization of AI only for positive outcomes. They stress the importance of utilizing it safely and ensuring our security is protected. The order recognizes how AI can play a huge role in scientific research and projects that can help humanity overall. The order even states how AI could play a big role in the education system, such as providing high-quality tutoring to students. With all this being said, the main priority is safety and security. Period.
Implications for the Future of Business
It is very clear that AI will be involved in business going forward. However, it is being stressed by the government to make sure you use AI ethically and implement strict safety and security standards. Businesses might need to begin investing in effective training programs for their employees on the utilization of AI. Depending on the business industry, AI will be utilized in different ways.
The executive order calls for a more level playing field for entrepreneurs so they can get the benefits of utilizing AI but also making sure to protect workers’ rights in an AI-integrated workplace. There is a clear focus on making sure we do not take AI too far where it is uncontrollable. The utilization of AI in business is possible, but only with major efforts to make sure it is safe and compliant with the government’s new security standards.
With this Executive Order, the U.S. positions itself as a leader in responsible AI innovation. This could likely influence global AI policies and practices. To be clear…. AI is not legal everywhere right now. However, with this pivotal executive order being released, business owners in America have the opportunity to be the first to really implement AI in a safe and ethical way.
What Does This Mean For My Business?
If you are currently a business owner and utilize tech in any way, it is probably a really good idea to start paying attention to AI. It might even be a good idea to start thinking of ways you could implement AI into your business effectively. Even spending an extra hour a day learning new AI tools and how they work could go a long way. However, making sure you use AI safely and not for harmful use is what the executive order is preaching. If the whole AI wave is scaring you… you are probably not alone. However, it is probably best that you take the initiative to adapt to the ever-changing landscape in business and technology before your competitors do.
Consulting with local AI experts is a good way to shorten your learning curve. Believe me…. learning how AI works and can be used is not a kindergarten-level class. It can be challenging for some people to understand. That’s why we have professionals here at Zellus who have studied over 70 + hours of certified training on AI to make sure we stay in front of our competition. The landscape of marketing is having lots of changes due to AI already. Your industry could be next. At the end of the day, regardless of whether you are pro-AI or anti-AI, the ones who adapt are going to win and succeed. Period