Responsible Use of Generative AI

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Background

• The government is committed to ensuring the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) including the use of generative AI tools.
• Generative AI is a type of AI that produces content (e.g., text, audio, code, images) in response to user input.

Departments are encouraged to responsibly explore potential uses of generative AI tools to support and improve their operations, making sure to identify and manage risks before they do. For example, large language models such as ChatGPT or Copilot could be used to edit or summarize non-sensitive documents or information and brainstorm ideas.

Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat (TBS) has developed guidance to support the responsible use of generative AI in the government:

Guide on the use of generative AI – originally published in Fall 2023 and updated in Winter 2024, the guide provides direction to departments in their use of generative AI tools. It includes principles, best practices and identifies issues and policy considerations to help ensure responsible use of these tools.

Generative AI in your daily work – a one-page reference that provides additional direction on DOs and DON’Ts for public servants using generative AI and summarizes best practices from the Guide on the use of generative AI.

Resources

• Using Generative AI in the Government of Canada – a virtual course developed by the Canada School of Public Service, Shared Services Canada and TBS that provides an overview of generative AI. It covers topics including exploring potential uses and tools available to public servants, writing effective prompts and ensuring inclusive language.

• Working with AI – a series of short articles featuring generative AI use cases such as writing memos, learning a new language and enhancing programming efficiency.

Enquiries

Please contact the TBS Responsible Data and AI team (ai-ia@tbs-sct.gc.ca) for any questions.