HTI’s Lighthouse Case Study Series shines a light on organisations that are actively exploring different approaches to human-centred AI governance. In the first case study, HTI presents insights from Telstra.
Telstra's approach to AI Governance
Since HTI’s AI Corporate Governance Program (AIGCP) began in September 2022, we have engaged with over 1000 organisations and individuals across Australia. A consistent request from business leaders has been to hear from their peers across diverse organisations who are in the process of tackling the challenge of AI governance.
In response, HTI is launching its Lighthouse Case Study Series, as part of the AICGP, to highlight the insights generated and challenges faced by organisations on the frontier of human-centred AI development and deployment.
“In a rapidly evolving technological and regulatory landscape around artificial intelligence, no single organisation has all the answers to making sure AI use is responsible and safe,” said HTI Co-Director and Industry Professor Nicholas Davis.
One of the fastest ways that HTI can support this is to facilitate peer-to-peer learning around what works when it comes to AI governance, sharing practical examples from organisations that are prioritising human-centred AI development and deployment. - Professor Nicholas Davis
HTI’s Lighthouse Case Study Series will initially feature three leading organisations – Telstra, KPMG Australia, and the University of Technology Sydney.
The first case study explores how Telstra is currently using AI, its approach to AI governance, the governance structures it has set up that support decision-making, and the complementary support provided to date.
Important insights include:
When assessing the strategic value of AI, organisations should consider the problem they are trying to solve and whether AI is the right tool to solve that problem.
Effective data governance is critical to AI governance.
Robust system architecture is essential to operationalise governance controls.
A rapidly evolving technology landscape requires continuous improvement.
Telstra has strategically invested in AI governance, particularly through its creation of internal governance structures that oversee all data and AI initiatives. These aim to ensure that Telstra’s commitment to Australia’s AI Ethics Principles and responsible AI are given practical effect.
Beyond the new governance structures created to formalise accountability for AI systems, such as the Risk Council for AI and Data, Telstra has aimed to foster a culture of safe and responsible AI and data use, strengthened by investment in employee training.
HTI’s work with leading Australian organisations demonstrates that there is not a ‘one size fits all approach’ to AI governance. However, for many businesses, the journey will start where Telstra’s did - not getting caught up in the hype, building a solid data and AI system inventory, and being strategic in how and where to deploy AI. - Professor Nicholas Davis
Over April 2024, HTI will publish further case studies featuring KPMG and UTS as part of HTI’s Lighthouse Case Study Series on AI Governance.