The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) presents public administrations around the world with the challenge of using innovative technologies in a targeted manner without neglecting ethical and legal principles. Digitalisation offers enormous potential to make administrative processes more efficient, provide citizens with better services and deploy resources in a targeted manner. At the same time, public administrations must ensure the responsible use of AI to prevent discrimination, enhance transparency, and build public trust in government institutions.
To successfully master this balancing act, the AIT has developed a comprehensive practical guide for the responsible use of AI in public administration. This first work of its kind in the Germanspeaking world serves as an orientation aid for decision-makers and administrative staff and covers technical, ethical and legal aspects of AI use. It offers practical recommendations for the implementation and use of AI systems and highlights specific use cases. A broad-based dialogue between academia, administrative experts and political actors has ensured that the guide not only conveys theoretical principles, but can also be directly integrated into everyday administrative life.
The guide forms the basis for the development of new administrative guidelines, supports the introduction of AI-supported processes and promotes data-driven, transparent and citizen-friendly administration. It helps public institutions to strategically manage digital transformations, organise work processes more efficiently and improve the quality of the services offered.
The social impact of this project is far-reaching: an effective and ethically sound use of AI increases the transparency of government decisions, reduces bureaucratic hurdles and facilitates access to important services – especially for disadvantaged population groups. At the same time, the initiative helps to reduce fears of AI and promotes a better understanding of its opportunities and risks.
The positive effects extend to policy-making, as an informed, technology-supported administration supports a sustainable, inclusive and future-proof society. The importance of this work has also been officially recognised.
The success of the guideline is reflected not only in its widespread distribution in Austria, but also in its international appeal. It has been recognised by the Court of Audit Austria as an example of best practice for the entire federal administration and has the potential to serve as a model for responsible AI integration in government structures in other countries as well.
