The CIPD plans to set up three working groups to develop principles and practical guidance to help employers embrace artificial intelligence tools – particularly generative AI tools such as ChatGPT – responsibly and ethically.  

The need for the working groups was agreed at a recent roundtable, where the CIPD brought together a range of experts to establish common thinking around the opportunities and risks associated with AI.  Attendees included technologists, consultants, outsourcing businesses, legal professionals, HR professionals, research think tanks and academics, Acas and the chartered institute for IT - BCS.  

There was broad agreement on the need to develop a clearer understanding of how people and technology can work together. Current understanding across business functions ranges widely from avoidance and fear, to embracing the opportunity for innovation, connectivity and productivity.   
 
Without any current regulations to control AI usage, it’s important to develop principles and consistent guidance to support businesses. People professionals can help to create a safe environment for an organisation to lean in and test AI, to understand the areas of value, and the key points through a task or activity that require human oversight or intervention.  

The three new working groups will bring together policy makers, people professionals from the CIPD’s HR Leaders’ Network, and other partners to focus on:  

1. Developing principles for safe and ethical use of AI in the workplace, for positive outcomes for people as well as the organisation.   
2. Change management across the organisation, overcoming barriers and building awareness and organisational trust.   
3. Understanding the impact of AI on skills, the required skills and educational needs for the future.