Decide whether AI is the right solution
Use AI only where it helps solve a real problem and improves outcomes.
Start by understanding the problem rather than choosing a technology.
Ask yourself:
- What problem are we trying to solve?
- Who will benefit?
- What does success look like?
- Could a simpler solution achieve the same outcome?
- Do the benefits outweigh the risks?
Choosing not to use AI can be the right decision.
Before you start
Make sure you:
- have a clear problem to solve
- understand the outcome you want to achieve
- have considered alternatives to AI
- understand the main risks and benefits
- have involved the right people
- can meet legal, ethical and governance requirements
Common uses of AI
AI can support many types of work across the public sector.
Content and communication
For example:
- drafting or summarising documents
- creating plain English content
- generating translations
- responding to common enquiries
Data analysis
For example:
- analysing large datasets
- identifying patterns and trends
- supporting research and policy development
Decision support
For example:
- helping staff assess applications or cases
- prioritising workloads
- identifying potential risks
AI should support human judgement, not replace it.
Service automation
For example:
- chatbots and virtual assistants
- routing requests
- automating repetitive internal processes
If you're developing a new AI system, check the Scottish AI Register first to see whether a similar system already exists.