Artificial Intelligence (AI) might sound complex , but don't be intimidated! Essentially, AI is a technology that enables computers to mimic human intelligence—think of it like a very smart and helpful colleague who's great at multi-tasking.
In a charity role, AI can be a game changer. It can help automate tasks that are repetitive, leaving you more time to focus on the impactful work that you love. Imagine not having to manually sift through data or send individual emails, because an AI tool is doing it for you!
AI can also help us understand our work better. It can analyse data, predict trends, and even suggest actions that might help us serve our cause more effectively. For instance, AI can help us understand what kind of content our donors respond to, or predict what resources might be most needed in the future.
Using AI doesn't mean you need to be a tech whiz. There are many user-friendly AI tools out there designed for non-techies.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) can revolutionise the way we work in charities. From automating repetitive tasks to enhancing decision-making, AI can streamline operations and boost effectiveness. For instance, AI can help us to analyse donor behaviour, predicting trends, and personalising communications. It can also support programme delivery, such as chatbots providing information and support to service users.
Several charities have successfully used AI. For example, the British Heart Foundation used AI to predict geographical areas where CPR knowledge was low, helping them target their training programs.
Parkinson's UK developed a chatbot that provides information and support to people affected by Parkinson's.
Doing some small, quick tasks is the best way to get started with AI and build your confidence. You could create a free account on ChatGPT, Claude or other AI tools, and ask it a question. Is there a blog or a website section you needed to write? You could ask AI to help you make a start, then edit what it suggests. Alternatively, you could create a free Canva account and experiment with AI image generation.
Once you’ve had a play around with some of the tools, you might be in a good position to identify the tasks that could benefit from automation or enhanced decision-making. This might include data analysis, communication, or service delivery tasks. Next, research the AI tools available that could perform these tasks, keeping in mind your budget and technical capabilities.
Consider starting small with a single, manageable project and then gradually expanding your use of AI as you become more comfortable with the technology. Remember, successful implementation of AI will require ongoing learning and adjustment.
Safety is a paramount concern when using AI. Start by understanding the ethical implications and potential risks, such as data privacy and bias. Ensure compliance with data protection regulations. Use transparent and explainable AI models, and regularly audit their performance. Always prioritise the welfare of the people you serve.
There is a whole section in this framework dedicated to the ethics and risks of AI.