How could AI assist decision making in the government?

Private companies have received AI technology, robotics, and cloud computing with open arms for their continuous pursuit of increased productivity and maximum efficiency. The public sector is starting to open up to the idea of improving its decision-making process with artificial intelligence tools that could not only reduce the volume of work but actually improve the lives of millions of people.

AI tools for welfare and workforce

The UK is already adjusting its decision-making process and predictions based on algorithms that can process a large volume of data to identify patterns and isolate irrelevant information with no value for the process. In 2019, 140 out of 408 councils in the country were already taking advantage of risk assessment tools based on algorithms to solve benefits claims and help with welfare issues. The privately developed tools simplify and speed up the process of determining eligibility for benefits and calculating the entitlements. 

AI tools play an important role for the justice system too, with 53 of 96 local authorities and about a quarter of police authorities using AI tools to assess risks and make predictions. For example, the Harm Assessment Risk Tool can predict re-offending. Decision-making based on such AI tools determines a higher level of accuracy and contributes to better management of risks and outcomes.

The Australian government relies on artificial intelligence for workforce planning. Their AI tools contribute to identifying sets of skills required for various programs. However, they are also used to handle structured and repetitive processes that would otherwise require the involvement of a large number of people and consume a lot of time. Automating processes based on repetitive patterns and actions can be used to reassign the human capital where is most needed and simplify the overall decision-making process with accurate and reliable answers and results.

Public sector-algorithms that simplify decisions

The health sectors of governments around the world are already benefiting greatly from artificial intelligence present in surgeries, primary care, virtual nursing assistance, and clinical decisions. However, there is so much more AI can do for this public sector! For example, the Indian government launched the Aarogya Setu app to help manage the COVID-19 crisis. The app allows tracking close contacts and any other person who has been in contact with a patient infected with the new coronavirus.

Moreover, artificial intelligence tools can make a difference for the education sector. For example, automatic grading systems can help teachers around the world. This AI tool can learn from previous answers and improve as it goes. Many universities are already using a famous education app called BYJU for grading students and providing a modern education interface. AI tools such as this can help teachers save a lot of time and grade papers more accurately and fairly while allowing them to plan new teaching methods to improve the education of struggling students and focus their energy on creating courses or training.

Artificial intelligence for more efficient policies

And these are just a few of the many ways AI can make a difference and improve our lives when in the capable hands of governments. Algorithms, machine learning, predictive technology, all can contribute to creating a clear image of the needs of a country and the solutions for its problems. Artificial intelligence can be the best tool policymakers have ever had for analyzing large amounts of data, identifying patterns, and managing accurate and useful results. For example, if policymakers have access to an AI tool that can identify a country’s economic issues responsible for unemployment, they have the right set of data to solve the problem before it will happen.

Furthermore, AI-enabled systems can detect system corruption and analyze loopholes that might have been created in the system. They can analyze political candidates and contribute to a more accurate picture of their behavior, leadership skills, and records. Used efficiently and by an independent organization, algorithms can extirpate the syndrome of fake news and fake agendas, exposing the public to the truth and allowing them to make informed decisions.

In conclusion, artificial intelligence will not only help governments know their countries and communicate easier with their citizens but it will also result in a better democratic system. With two conditions though: transparency and a flawless balance between the use of the machine and human intelligence.