Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming an integral part of daily life, but many organisations have yet to fully grasp its potential, limitations and associated risks, writes David O’Sullivan
The introduction of the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act means organisations are now legally required to ensure that employees using AI, as well as those impacted by its outputs, possess adequate AI literacy.
AI literacy is the ability to understand, evaluate and interact effectively with AI systems. It encompasses recognising risks and opportunities, interpreting AI outputs and making informed deployment decisions.
Ensuring AI literacy within an organisation isn’t just about compliance – it reduces risk, fosters innovation and drives competitive advantage.
For businesses seeking to enhance their AI literacy, the European Commission offers detailed guidance, accessible in their online library: AI Literacy Learning Repository.
Leading organisations integrate AI literacy into AI governance frameworks, ensuring clear roles, responsibilities and key performance indicators. Here are the six most effective strategies.
1. Tailored training for different levels of expertise
A one-size-fits-all approach to training rarely works. Successful organisations provide:
- Foundational courses for employees new to AI; and
- Advanced technical training for developers and data scientists.
2. Hands-on learning with practical applications
The best way to understand AI is to use it. Companies should offer their employees:
- Workshops, case studies and simulations to demonstrate AI’s practical impact; and
- AI sandbox environments for employees to test and experiment with AI safely.
3. Role-specific AI training
Different teams utilise AI in different ways. Finance teams, product managers and engineers all interact with AI in various ways.
Tailored training can help to ensure employees receive the relevant knowledge necessary to integrate AI into their workflows effectively.
4. AI mentorship and cross-department collaboration
Encouraging knowledge-sharing between AI experts and employees helps bridge skill gaps.
Some companies establish AI mentorship programmes where experienced employees guide their peers in AI adoption.
5. Embedding responsible and ethical AI practices
Many organisations are integrating responsible AI principles into their training, focusing on transparency, fairness and compliance with AI regulations such as the EU AI Act.
In Ireland, the Government introduced principles for public sector organisations early in 2024, and these are still relevant today.
6. Continuous learning
AI is evolving rapidly. Training should be ongoing with regular updates and refresher sessions to keep pace with advancements.
The impact of AI literacy
When AI literacy programmes are effectively implemented, organisations experience significant benefits, including:
- Increased AI adoption and engagement: Companies have seen an increase in employee participation in AI training and a higher usage of AI tools in daily tasks. According to the AI Literacy Learning Repository, one organisation that implemented an AI literacy programme reported a 30 percent increase in AI training participation and a 65 percent rise in AI tool utilisation.
- Improved workforce confidence and innovation: Employees who are comfortable with AI use it effectively, leading to better decision-making and new ideas.
- Operational efficiency gains: AI literacy helps automate repetitive tasks, streamline workflows and boost productivity.
- New AI-driven offerings: Some organisations have leveraged AI literacy training to upskill employees, leading to new AI-driven products and services.
- Greater consumer trust: Companies that prioritise transparency in AI usage – and educate affected individuals – see higher trust levels. Some businesses even involve clients in AI training sessions.
Making AI literacy a business priority
Organisations cannot afford to overlook AI literacy, given our rapidly changing world and the requirements of the EU AI Act.
Investing in education, practical training and ethical AI practices equips employees with the skills they need to work effectively with AI and allows leadership to make informed decisions on deployment and controls.
By addressing challenges and leveraging the best strategies, companies can build an AI-literate workforce that drives innovation, enhances efficiency and ensures responsible AI use while meeting compliance objectives.
AI literacy isn’t just about understanding how AI works; it’s about ensuring businesses and employees can utilise AI effectively to create meaningful and positive outcomes. If your organisation hasn’t yet prioritised AI literacy, now is the time to start.
David O’Sullivan is Director of Privacy, Digital Trust & AI Governance at Forvis Mazars
LOADING...