General FAQs

What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?  

AI refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn like humans. These systems can perform tasks such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation.  

How does AI work?  

AI works by using algorithms to process data. It learns patterns and makes decisions based on the input data, however, has no understanding of how words are put together to make a sentence. The more data it processes, the better it becomes at making accurate predictions or decisions.  

Where is AI used today?  

AI is used in many everyday examples such as:  

• When shopping and browsing on online retail sites all recommendations presented to you are based on your browsing history and AI is used to present you these items.  

• In the car if you use google maps, AI is used to monitor levels of traffic on the roads and will use AI to intelligent route you on the fastest route.  

• If you use any home automation speakers like Alexa or google these all-use AI to present information to you for example turning speech into words so it can undertake your actions.  

What are the benefits of using AI?  

• Efficiency: AI can perform tasks faster and with greater accuracy than humans. However, human oversight will continue to be critical to confirm accuracy.  

• Cost Savings: Automation of tasks can reduce operational costs.  

• Innovation: AI can analyse vast amounts of data to provide insights and foster innovation.  

What are the challenges of implementing AI?  

• Data Privacy: Ensuring data used by AI systems is secure and private.  

• Bias: AI systems can inherit biases from the data they are trained on.  

• Job Displacement: Automation and AI does not necessarily mean job losses as portrayed in the media. Within GC we want to foster a culture that embraces AI and enables us to do things more efficiently.  We want to empower colleagues to focus on what they do best – adding value to our customers and clients.  

What are some ethical considerations regarding AI?   The implementation of AI must take into account the diverse needs and perspectives of GC's stakeholders. Additionally, AI systems should be developed to uphold the rule of law, human rights, democratic principles, and diversity, incorporating necessary safeguards—such as allowing for human oversight when needed—to promote a just and equitable society.  

AI usage should also address accessibility for individuals with disabilities, aiming to enhance access and reduce negative impacts. For instance, an online chatbot could be equipped with both text and voice interfaces.  

What is the future of AI?   

AI is expected to continue advancing, with improvements in areas like natural language processing, autonomous systems, and personalised AI set to accelerate dramatically. It will increasingly integrate into daily life and various industries, driving innovation and efficiency.   

 Is AI the same as automation?   

No, automation refers to using machines to perform preprogrammed tasks without human intervention, whereas AI involves machines that can learn, reason, and make decisions.   

Can AI replace human jobs?  

While AI can automate specific tasks, it is more about augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them. Our commitment is to adopt AI responsibly, ethically, and in line with our values. This means using AI to free up time for colleagues to deliver more value-added services and benefits to clients and customers.  

For example, AI productivity apps and tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot can enhance efficiency in the workplace by streamlining, and even automating, routine tasks such as summarising documents, kickstarting presentations, and catching up on emails faster.  

By leveraging AI tools for productivity, we can empower colleagues to focus on more creative, strategic, and meaningful work. Moreover, the rise of AI will generate numerous new job opportunities in areas like AI development, maintenance, and oversight, ultimately creating a dynamic and innovative work environment.  

I’m really interested in AI - how can I get involved?   

We welcome your ideas and insight and have set up a dedicated AI mailbox at ai@growthco.uk for you to share your thoughts and ideas on the use of AI at GC.