Threats and Opportunities of AI for UK Local Government

Thinking about artificial intelligence recently, it has become apparent that there are number of key issues. There is some confusion as well around AI because it seems to be an all-encompassing concept at the moment, which is actually been around for an awful long time. When we discuss them what we are actually thinking about is large learning models (LLMs). These are building layers and it really splendidly uses the old phrase "Built on the shoulders of Giants", and those who have gone before the very nature of these large language models is that they can grow existentially over a period of time. These models and their coding is extensible. By using APIs, developers can incorporate the technology into other software and applications.  

In the future, they will likely mesh together, making it necessary to think of a hierarchic pyramid constructed of lots of smaller pyramids, which are the other previous models and the incorporated learning being one thing. The encyclopaedia Britannica, the fount of all knowledge and scientific rigour for 250 years, was rendered obsolete almost over night by the Internet, Wikipedia and the cost of maintaining the old editorial and subscription model. Well this new kid on the block will instantly contain both the contents of Britannica and Wikipedia along with the searchable contents of the Internet, input from the learning models and the vast amounts of new information being pumped into it daily.  

The current pace and interest in AI could indicate a paradigm shift that is here to stay. Artificial intelligence large language models will soon touch just about every part of technology. Yes, that's a sweeping generalisation. We are, however, now seeing many software applications, becoming "AI aware" and offering "AI functionality" overnight in their new releases. I've just seen this in the "Gitbook" app we use for CTAG, for instance. 

Over the last 30-odd years we've always believed that the future power lies with knowledge workers. Now it's Data Scientists.  Knowledge workers themselves bring knowledge. Knowledge Management is a soft skill, which supports and underpins a lot of what we do nowadays in the digital world.  Once knowledge is captured then published. Knowledge can then be  revised, refined and passed on. 

Knowledge goes out of date. Tacit knowledge and ephemeral knowledge is very important, whole construct of artificial intelligence is to keep learning and link knowledge together, making new links. This will in due course  force new previously non-existent genres and fields of research that do not exist today. 

The emergent field of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning will in turn drive further innovations.  IT will be a fascinating world moving forward. What makes it particularly interesting in my opinion is the true "Blue versus Red" thinking in  information security, assurance  and cyber, Red being the "Adversaries" and Blue the "Defenders". We're starting to hear about red teams those are the attacking forces those that want to break into networks and attack things. Blue  teams being the network defenders. When you blend the two together you get "Purple teams", which again are becoming a new very popular genre. The Red Team concept like many of the stolen terms in cyber, came from the Military as a way of stress testing strategy, doctrine and tactics.  

Introducing Artificial Intelligence to cyber security and Information Assurance,  brings both the blessings and curses of its speed, persistence and capabilities. That's why issues around legal, ethics, bias, replicability and privacy become so important.  The sooner we start to think about these policy issues, the better we will cope with these emergent threats and opportunities. The thought of self learning, self replicating and self healing neural networks being built into software applications and systems working at machine speed, will soon over take human cognition. 

This has been the thing of science fiction for a long time. The speaking computer in Star Trek is now defect with Siri and Alexa type speak engines which are now pervasive in many home and work environments. Extend this to connected places, smart cities and the Internet of Things and we are already on the journey. 

The new element is the non-technical way we can verbalise and synthesise, low-code and zero code solutions. It won't be long before connected spaces are able to integrate AI technologies capable of defining and executing micro-service (server less) software functions automatically authored, integrated and deployed without human intervention.  

These new causal variables will form themselves into automated solutions, where we will see smart software, self deploying, learning and potentially replicating itself. How will we  incorporate them into our thinking?  This will lead to new approaches to strategic planning, new policy frameworks, tasking, processes and procedures. The sooner we recognise these changes are coming, the better we will be able to both leverage the advantages and opportunities. We must also identify and mitigate the threats  and defend against the vulnerabilities that will also be introduced. 

• This is the single most exciting and terrifying technology to emerge It’s been around for years, we’ve seen it coming, however there is a paradigm shift underway. 
• Think Boston Robotics + AI 
• The machine learning models bring a whole new meaning to “Built on the shoulders of giants”. There layers multiply AI will be logarithmic.
• -I’d think about it in terms of AI & Moores Law. We’ve saturated CPU growth, we’ve increased power of processors, made RAM and storage cheaper. Energy costs are the limiting factor!
• Once this snowballs starts, (it has) the momentum will exponentially accelerate, logarithmically.
• We’re not ready for it. We must think Blue/Red=Purple Teaming......

The year 2024 marks a turning point in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). Advancements, particularly in large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and GPT-4, are impacting various sectors, and UK Local Government is no exception. This blog post will examine the threats and opportunities presented by AI, specifically tailored for a UK Local Government audience.

Threats

• Job displacement: As AI systems become more sophisticated, they can potentially automate many tasks currently performed by local government employees. This could lead to job displacement, especially for roles involving repetitive or data-heavy processes.
• Security risks: AI can be used maliciously to enhance cyberattacks, targeting critical local government infrastructure and data. These attacks could disrupt essential services, compromise sensitive information, and erode public trust.
• Privacy concerns: LLMs are trained on vast datasets, often containing personal information. The use of AI in local government raises concerns about data privacy, potential misuse, and the need for robust safeguards to protect citizen data.
• Algorithmic bias: AI systems can inherit and amplify biases present in their training data, potentially leading to discriminatory outcomes in service delivery, decision-making, and resource allocation. Local governments must be vigilant in mitigating bias and ensuring fairness in AI systems.
• Misinformation and Social Disruption: The potential for AI to generate highly realistic and persuasive fake news, propaganda, and deepfakes poses a significant threat to social cohesion and public trust. Local governments need to develop strategies to counter misinformation and promote media literacy.
• Lack of understanding and expertise: The rapid evolution of AI technology can overwhelm local governments, which may lack the expertise and resources to effectively implement and manage AI systems. This lack of understanding can hinder adoption, exacerbate risks, and limit the potential benefits of AI.

Opportunities

• Increased efficiency and productivity: AI can automate routine tasks, freeing up local government employees to focus on more complex and strategic work. This can lead to significant improvements in efficiency, productivity, and service delivery. For example, AI can help streamline planning applications, benefits claims, and citizen engagement processes.
• Improved decision-making: AI can analyze vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and generate insights that can inform better decision-making in areas like resource allocation, urban planning, and public health.
• Enhanced citizen engagement: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can provide 24/7 support, answer frequently asked questions, and personalize interactions with citizens. This can improve citizen satisfaction, reduce service delivery costs, and increase accessibility to local government services.
• Innovation and economic growth: Embracing AI can position local governments as leaders in innovation, attracting investment, fostering new industries, and driving economic growth in their regions.
• Data-driven insights for policymaking: AI can help local governments analyze data to understand trends, anticipate challenges, and develop more effective policies in areas like transportation, housing, and social care.

Recommendations for UK Local Government

• Develop a comprehensive AI strategy: Establish a clear vision, goals, and roadmap for AI adoption in local government.
• Invest in skills and training: Equip local government employees with the necessary skills to understand, implement, and manage AI systems.
• Prioritize ethical considerations: Implement robust frameworks and guidelines to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI systems.
• Foster collaboration and partnerships: Work with universities, businesses, and other stakeholders to leverage expertise and resources.
• Engage with citizens: Communicate transparently about the use of AI in local government and address public concerns.

Conclusion:

The future of AI holds both challenges and opportunities for UK Local Government. By understanding the risks and proactively embracing the potential benefits, local governments can harness AI to improve services, enhance decision-making, and create a more efficient and citizen-centric future.