Generative AI is a technology that has the potential to revolutionize various industries. Early adopters have found success in fields such as content creation, marketing, research, and product development, but there are challenges, including data quality, ethics, privacy, and potential impacts on jobs and careers. To address these challenges, some organizations are establishing Centers of Excellence (CoE) dedicated to generative AI.
Members and leaders of AI CoEs, as well as those interested in establishing one, can learn from the experience of early adopters of Copilot for Microsoft 365. These organizations have found success by creating a CoE rather than just focus groups or committees. A CoE for generative AI should align AI goals with business strategy, identify impactful use cases, establish a roadmap for implementation, and oversee quality, security, privacy, ethics, and inclusivity.
The key to building a successful CoE for generative AI is to assemble a diverse team with the right mix of skills and expertise. Roles within the team should include a leader, champions, AI experts, and enablers who provide support services. The team should work together to create a charter that clarifies the purpose and goals of generative AI within the organization and establishes standards and expectations for development and usage.
Setting milestones and metrics is essential for the CoE to achieve its objectives. A strategic roadmap should prioritize AI opportunities, assign responsibilities to LOB leaders, monitor project teams, and evaluate outcomes and benefits. The CoE is responsible for overseeing the plan, while execution relies on IT, stakeholders, and the user community.
Identifying and managing risks is an ongoing function of the CoE. Generative AI presents unique risks that the CoE should plan for, such as copyright issues and quality control. Steps to recognize and mitigate risk include conducting assessments, enforcing guidelines, collecting feedback, communicating risks to management, and creating an Acceptable Use document for users.
In conclusion, a CoE for generative AI can help organizations create a competitive advantage and navigate the potential risks associated with AI technology. Building a CoE is a tailored and iterative process that requires leadership, governance, best practices, support, and training for AI initiatives. By understanding and addressing risks, CoEs can pave the way for sustainable AI success in organizations.
