by Trevor Bevins, Local Democracy Reporter.
Despite fears about Artificial Intelligence use Dorset Council says the technology has already started to build a more efficient workforce, freeing up capacity to provide better services.
The authority says the technology is widely used across the council which is taking part in a Government initiative to test Ai tools to improve services and efficiency.
Said a Dorset Council spokesperson: “In the broadest sense, we have been using types of Artificial Intelligence (Ai) technologies for some time. Whether it’s performing digital tasks, incorporating data science to uncover patterns, or summarising documents and sorting information, these tools help us analyse data more effectively. They enable better decision-making, improve efficiency, and enhance the service we provide to our customers.”
The council says that Ai is widely used in many of its information technology systems, including Microsoft Copilot.
“It’s a secure platform, meaning we are always in control and all information stays within the council. We also have strict rules to limit the use of other AI tools, and any automated systems are closely monitored to ensure responsible use.”
New systems are also being trialled by the council including one which can which help with meeting transcription and creating summaries for committee and other meeting minutes.
Said the spokesperson: “We are part of a UK Government initiative, called the Incubator for Ai that helps public sector organisations explore and test AI tools to improve services and efficiency. It works by identifying problems, developing and trailing Ai solutions, and supporting departments with guidance and resources, all under a framework that prioritises responsible and ethical use of Ai.
All our Ai projects follow our Responsible Ai Framework, which ensures transparency, fairness and accountability. Every tool is carefully assessed and approved before use, and we always keep a human in the loop to guide decisions.”
The council says it is currently considering proposals to use Ai in what is describes as “highly pressured areas” such as early health & care planning where vast amounts of data need to be synthesized.
