Significant gap in ethical AI implementation: Accenture

The latest data has found despite Australian businesses showing a strong commitment to ethical AI practices amid increasing regulatory scrutiny, there is a significant gap in implementation, according to Accenture.

According to the findings from the Total Enterprise Reinvention report, around 52 percent of businesses believe they can scale responsible AI across the next 18 months.

It also showed that while survey participants think responsible AI holds importance, only six percent of Australian organisations believe responsible AI have been scaled across and meeting future regulations.

Matt Coates, technology lead at Accenture ANZ told Digital Nation, “While business leaders recognise the importance of embracing responsible AI practices, the issue lies in establishing exactly how they implement these into their organisation.”

“Firstly, there is no universally accepted definition of responsible AI, making it more challenging for businesses to establish exactly what standard practices are. As a result, businesses often lack detailed guidance on operationalising these principles.”

Coates explained, “There is significant complexity of integrating ethical AI into existing systems”.

“All the while, AI technological development is outstripping regulatory and organisational capabilities.”

Failing to meet ethical AI standards “can range from regulatory penalties to reputational damage.”

“The Australian Government is considering implementing mandatory guardrails for high-risk AI applications, which may include requirements for testing, transparency, and accountability.

“Failure to adhere to these standards could lead to fines, restrictions on AI deployment, or mandatory audits.”

“But it isn’t just in compliance where companies will feel the consequences. The loss of trust from customers and partners can significantly impact a company's market position and brand value​.”

He added that equally, “failing to responsibly implement AI means missing out on the full array of productivity gains, meaning businesses risk falling behind in an increasingly AI-driven market.”

“Closing the implementation gap requires a multi-pronged approach,” according to Coates.

“Firstly, businesses should invest in training and upskilling their workforce to handle AI responsibly, including developing skills in AI ethics, data management, and algorithmic fairness.

“In addition, leveraging industry collaborations and prototypes can provide practical tools for assessing and mitigating AI risks.”

He said, “More broadly, regulatory frameworks need to evolve to provide clear guidelines and support for businesses.”

“If businesses adopt a responsible AI adoption mindset that focuses on supporting their people, they will be on the right path to unlocking the potential benefits AI can bring to the workforce.”

Coates said not fulfilling AI potential means missing out on significant opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and competitive advantage.

“AI has the potential to revolutionise many, if not all sectors, but without responsible implementation, businesses risk perpetuating biases, violating privacy, and causing unintentional harm. This not only affects the bottom line but also the broader societal trust in AI technologies.

“In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, businesses that do not fully embrace AI risk being left behind competitors who leverage AI for innovation and growth.

He explained that as AI technology becomes increasingly important to the way we work, “staying ahead requires continuous investment and attention.”

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