Category: AI Adoption

Use Case: AI—The Fire We Don’t Yet Understand

Fire changed everything.
Once humanity learned to create it on demand, fire cooked food, warmed homes, forged tools, powered engines, and eventually helped carry us to the moon. At the beginning, no one standing over that first controlled flame could have imagined rocket engines.
 
AI feels like one of those moments.
 
We are standing before something extraordinary while asking it to do ordinary work.
 
Draft an email. Summarize a meeting. Clean up a paragraph. Useful? Absolutely. But if that is where we stop, we are hitching a unicorn to a plow.
 
For professionals, AI is not merely another productivity tool. It is a strategic thinking environment that requires governance, experimentation, and imagination. Used well, it can help professionals practice, test, refine, and elevate their thinking.

Mentorship is a strong example.

True mentorship requires trust, judgment, experience, and human insight. AI does not replace that. It cannot match the wisdom of a respected partner, the pattern recognition of a seasoned CIO, or the confidence built through human coaching.

AI can make mentorship conversations better.

In our AI research and development work, we have been stress-testing how tools like ChatGPT can bridge technical teams and executive leadership. In one exercise, I used voice mode to model C-suite perspectives and test how technical outcomes translate into company value. The purpose was not basic advice. It was a strategic rehearsal.

A high-fidelity AI simulation can press on the questions leaders actually ask.

  • What risk does this reduce?
  • What adoption barrier does this remove?
  • How does this improve profitability, security, client service, or competitive position?
  • Where does process language need to become outcome language?

That is not a chatbot conversation. It is a sparring session.

This is the promise behind tools like Alterity+. They are not just search tools or content repositories. Used intentionally, they can become guided environments for readiness, exploration, and stronger decision-making.

AI will not replace the mentor, the leader, or the trusted advisor. It can help more people arrive ready for them.

That is why businesses cannot afford to treat AI as a plow horse. The companies that benefit most will be the ones willing to test responsibly, imagine boldly, and let experts help turn raw power into practical advantage.

Fire can warm a room, or it can launch a rocket.
The difference is what we learn to do with it.

Partner with Alterity to unlock your teams potential with AI Adoption and Alterity+.

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the Author

Dec’lan-Amadeus Colburn I

AI Specialist

AI Proficiency: A Baseline Skill

On February 13th, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) released a national AI Literacy Framework. This voluntary blueprint is designed to prepare the American workforce for AI-enabled work, signaling a shift where digital proficiency is no longer an elective—it is a baseline requirement. For business leadership, the framework clarifies that literacy is defined not by the software you purchase, but by how your team is prepared to interact with it.

At the center of this new standard is Prompt Engineering. It is the critical skill that bridges the “Execution Gap” between having an AI tool and realizing verifiable mastery in a corporate environment.

Defining Literacy Through the DOL Lens

The DOL Framework defines AI literacy as a cohesive system of understanding how AI works, how to use it safely, and how to supervise its output. In high-stakes professions, this requires moving beyond “AI curiosity” toward Applied Workflows. Prompt engineering is the language of this interaction. It allows an attorney to move from generic summaries to generating high-fidelity, industry-specific work products that meet the company’s rigorous standards.

Moving Beyond "Software Instruction" to Verified Readiness

Fulfilling the DOL’s mandate requires more than giving a workforce a login; it requires a strategic partnership that builds human infrastructure. This is where our team of training experts jumps in alongside your team to operationalize every step of the national blueprint.

Rather than offering generic “how-to” sessions, we act as a fractional extension of your company, integrating directly into your strategy to deliver customized training for every AI tool in your stack.

How our experts equip a ready workforce:

  • AI Adoption Strategy Consulting: Change management and planning to guide implementation, including sponsor enablement (leadership alignment), communications strategy, learning plans, support structures, and success metrics.
  • Responsible & Effective Use of AI: A foundational session covering AI principles, approved tools and policies, responsible use, and how to evaluate and verify AI outputs.
  • AI Tool Training: Hands-on, in-context training that helps professionals apply approved AI tools in their real workflows while maintaining company standards.
  • Prompting for Better Results: Practical prompt engineering that teaches participants to set clear goals, provide context and sources, define expectations, and use repeatable frameworks and techniques to direct AI effectively and reduce rework.
  • Validating AI Output: A risk-based approach to supervising AI output—how to classify what AI produced, spot common failure modes, and apply practical validation moves.
  • AI Innovation Labs & Continuous Reinforcement: Facilitated workshops to explore and prioritize industry and department-specific AI use cases, supported by webinars, job aids, and self-paced resources that create an ongoing pathway for continued learning as tools evolve.

The Three Pillars of Modern AI Proficiency

To meet the national standard, an effective educational roadmap must focus on three domains:

  1. Critical Interaction (The Art of the Prompt): Mastering techniques that reduce “hallucinations” and ensure output is anchored in approved data.
  2. Strategic Supervision: Moving from passive acceptance of AI output to active, expert oversight and verification.
  3. Role-Based Application: Ensuring senior partners, associates, and staff master the specific prompting skills required for their actual day-to-day workflows.

A Call to Capability

The DOL AI Literacy Framework is a call to action to treat digital proficiency as a core capability, not a default skill set. By focusing on prompt engineering excellence, businesses can reclaim billable capacity, mitigate risk, and sustain a culture where professionals lead with technology rather than reacting to it.

At Alterity, we don’t just teach; we build the strategic roadmaps that turn innovation into a competitive advantage.
Get started today!

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About the Author
About the Author

Carolyn Humpherys

Senior Consultant

Carolyn is a Senior Consultant with over 20 years of experience. Her expertise in communications, facilitation, technical training, change management, and graphic design, coupled with three decades of experience in the legal industry, positions her as a highly skilled and leading consultant. Utilizing established methodologies in adult learning, change management, and evaluation, Carolyn assists firms in educating people and elevating performance. Her expertise is highly sought after by organizations looking for genuine transformation as they adapt to modern work practices.

Carolyn has an interdisciplinary degree in Organizational Communications, Graphic Design and Writing. Her professional certifications include: Prosci® Change Management; Kirkpatrick Four Levels® of Evaluation; ATD Consulting and Human Performance; and the University of Oklahoma Training & Development Program. A life-long learner, Carolyn dedicates time to researching and learning new technologies. Since the release of ChatGPT, her focus has included the responsible and effective use of Generative AI tools. Co-recipient of the ILTA 2016 Consultant of the Year award for her role in creating the Traveling Coaches Certified Legal Trainer Program, Carolyn has helped over 150 law firm trainers elevate their performance.

Carolyn collaborates closely with clients to craft strategies for a wide range of adoption initiatives such as cloud technologies like NetDocuments, iManage Work, Microsoft 365, Teams and Copilot; compliance topics like Security Awareness and AI usage; and organizational topics such as thriving cultures and information governance. Her focus is on crafting solutions that address the challenges that impact people and the organization.

AI Transformation: The New Leadership Imperative

AI is no longer just a technology trend—it’s a strategic lever for growth, resilience, and competitive edge—an imperative for every executive. Generative AI is revolutionizing how we work, but the real transformation begins with how we lead. It’s about empowering people to think differently, act boldly, and innovate fearlessly. By fostering a culture of experimentation and accountability, leaders can unlock new revenue streams, drive operational excellence, and future-proof their organization. The organizations that thrive will be those whose leaders harness AI to drive measurable business outcomes, transform culture, and create lasting competitive advantage.

Define the Why: Clarity Drives Momentum

To build trust and engagement, leaders must clearly communicate the purpose behind AI initiatives.

  • Share real success stories in town halls.
  • Align leadership on strategy and capabilities.
  • Create cross-functional teams to drive innovation.

Make It Everyone’s Job: Ownership Fuels Adoption

AI is for everyone. Empower your teams to experiment and contribute.

  • Provide time and resources for innovation.
  • Build a central hub of tools and best practices.
  • Establish governance for safe and ethical AI use.

Think Bigger: Curiosity Sparks Breakthroughs

The most transformative ideas come from curiosity and imagination.

  • Celebrate bold thinking and challenge assumptions.
  • Create feedback loops and role-specific training.
  • Showcase innovative ideas across the organization.

Final Thought: Lead with Purpose, Transform with People

AI transformation is a leadership challenge. When people are empowered with clarity, ownership, and curiosity, technology becomes the catalyst, not the goal.

Let’s lead with purpose. Let’s transform with people at the center.

Now is the moment for executive leaders to define the AI agenda and lead the transformation from the front. By setting a clear vision and championing a culture of experimentation and accountability, you can unlock new business value and future-proof your organization. Let’s partner to turn purpose into performance and innovation into measurable impact.

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6 Tips for Copilot

1. Using Mnemonic Devices for Better Prompting

Using mnemonic devices like ICE (Intent, Context, Example), RISEN (Role, Instructions, Steps, End Goal, Narrowing), or COSTAR (Context, Objective, Structure, Tone, Audience, Result) can help you craft effective prompts. They remind you to include essential elements, making your prompts clear and comprehensive:

ICE:

  • Intent: Clearly state what you want to achieve.
  • Context: Provide background information to set the stage.
  • Example: Give an example to guide the AI.

RISEN:

  • Role: Assign a role to the AI.
  • Instructions: Be specific in your instructions.
  • Steps: Outline the steps to follow.
  • End Goal: State the desired outcome.
  • Narrowing: Provide constraints to focus the response.

COSTAR:

  • Context: Provide the background information.
  • Objective: Specify what you want to achieve.
  • Structure: Define how the information should be presented.
  • Tone: Dictate the manner the response should be delivered.
  • Audience: Specify who the response is intended for.
  • Result: State the expected result.

These frameworks help ensure your prompts are clear, comprehensive, and effective, leading to more accurate and relevant responses from #Copilot and other GenAI tools on the first try, reducing the need for multiple iterations.

2. Zero-shot vs. Prompt-stacking vs. Prompt-chaining​

There are many prompting techniques you  can use to improve the responses from #Copilot and other GenAI tools—these are the three I use  daily. Knowing when to use zero-shot, prompt-stacking, or prompt-chaining will absolutely enhance  your AI interactions. 

Zero-shot involves giving the AI a task without any prior examples, ideal for straightforward queries. 

Prompt-stacking combines multiple prompts into one to refine the AI’s response, useful for  complex tasks. Prompt-chaining links several prompts in a sequence to handle complex tasks in  stages. Each prompt builds on the output of the previous one, allowing for a more detailed and  refined response. This method is particularly useful for larger tasks that require step-by-step  instructions or multi-layered analysis. For example: 

  • Step 1 Prompt: “Summarize the key facts of the case Smith v. Texas using bullet points.” 
  • Step 2 Prompt (using Step 1 output): “Identify the main legal issues presented in the case  Smith v. Texas.” 
  • Step 3 Prompt: “Provide a detailed analysis of the court’s decision in Smith v. Texas,  including the reasoning behind the ruling.” 
  • Step 4 Prompt: “Draft a conclusion summarizing the implications of the court’s decision in  Smith v. Texas for future cases.” 
The Benefits of Prompt Chaining
  • Improved Accuracy: By breaking down a complex task into smaller, manageable steps,  prompt chaining helps ensure that each part of the task is addressed accurately. This reduces  the risk of errors and enhances the overall quality of the response. 
  • Enhanced Clarity: Prompt chaining allows for a more structured approach to problem solving. Each step can be clearly defined and executed, making it easier to follow the logic  and reasoning behind the AI’s response. 
  • Flexibility: This technique provides the flexibility to adjust and refine each step based on the  output of the previous one. If a particular step needs more detail or a different approach, it  can be modified without affecting the entire process. 
  • Efficiency: By handling tasks in stages, prompt chaining can save time and effort. It allows  for a more efficient workflow, as each step can be completed and validated before moving  on to the next.
  • Scalability: Prompt chaining is scalable and can be applied to a wide range of tasks, from  simple queries to complex projects. It is particularly useful for tasks that require a high level  of detail and precision. 

Choosing the right prompt for the job is just another aspect of learning how to get the most from  #Copilot and other GenAI tools. 

3. Talk to AI Like a Human

When interacting with #Copilot and other GenAI tools, treat it like a  conversation with a human, not a Google search. Be polite and clear in your requests.  

Example:

Imagine you need to draft a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) for a new business  partnership. Instead of typing “NDA template,” you could say, “Hi, I need to draft a non-disclosure  agreement for a new business partnership. Can you help me create a template that includes clauses  for confidentiality, duration, and mutual obligations? Thank you!” 

By providing context and being polite, you make it easier for the AI to understand your specific  requirements and deliver a more tailored response. This approach not only improves the accuracy of  the output but also makes the interaction more pleasant and efficient. 

Statistics on Politeness: Research has shown that being polite to AI can lead to better responses. A  study conducted by Future Publishing revealed that more than 55% of respondents consistently use  polite language when interacting with AI, up from 49% in the previous survey[1]. 

Additionally, a report from TechRadar highlighted an experiment where polite interactions with  ChatGPT resulted in higher quality responses[2]. The study found that politeness encourages the AI  to provide more thoughtful and accurate answers, creating a positive feedback loop where users  continue to be polite, leading to even better responses over time. 

References 

[1] Tom’s Guide: New survey reveals how polite we are to AI assistants ahead of new …

[2] TechRadar: The Impact of Politeness on ChatGPT Responses

4. Validate Information

Always validate the information provided by #Copilot and other GenAI tools.  There have been instances where lawyers cited fake case law due to relying solely on AI-generated  content. Remember, if it’s wrong to do something without AI, it’s wrong to do it with AI. Double check facts and sources to maintain your credibility and avoid potential pitfalls.

Examples of AI-Generated Errors: 

  1. Mata v. Avianca, Inc. (2023): Lawyers cited six non-existent cases generated by ChatGPT.  The court fined them $5,000 and required them to send letters to six judges who were falsely  identified as the authors of the fake opinions[1]. 
  2. Monk v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. (2024): Lawyer cited two non-existent cases and  multiple fake quotations. He was sanctioned $2,000 and required to take Continuing Legal  Education (CLE) on AI[1]. 
  3. Wadsworth v. Walmart (2025): Lawyer cited eight non-existent cases. The fine is pending,  the lawyer was replaced by his supervisor, and the firm paid opposing counsel’s fees and  expenses for the court filing[1]. 

While the monetary sanctions might not be steep, the hit to one’s reputation is. Relying solely on AI generated content without verification has consequences. Always cross-check facts and sources to  ensure accuracy and maintain credibility.

5. Use AI as a Content Accelerator

Think of #Copilot and other GenAI tools as a content accelerator,  not a finished product generator. It can help you brainstorm ideas, draft content, and refine your  writing, but always review and edit the output. This ensures the final product aligns with your voice  and meets your standards. 

Benefits of Using AI as a Content Accelerator: 

  1. Idea Generation: AI can help you come up with new ideas and perspectives that you might  not have considered.  
  2. Drafting Content: AI can assist in drafting initial versions of your content to provide a solid  foundation that you can build upon, saving you time and effort. 
  3. Refining Writing: AI can help you refine and polish your writing. You can use it to check for  grammar and spelling errors, improve sentence structure, and enhance the overall readability  of your content.  
  4. Consistency: AI can help maintain consistency in your writing style and tone (particularly  useful for large projects or collaborative efforts) to standardize the language and format for a  cohesive final product. 
  5. Efficiency: Using AI as a content accelerator can significantly increase your productivity so  you can focus on higher-level tasks. 

By using #Copilot and other GenAI tools as a content accelerator, you can streamline the content  creation process, enhance the quality of your output, and ultimately deliver more value to your  clients and your organization.

6. Avoid the "AI Accent"

The “AI Accent” refers to the telltale signs of AI-generated content, such as  overly formal language, repetitive phrases, or unnatural sentence structures. To avoid this,  personalize and humanize the output by adding your unique touch. This makes the content more  engaging and relatable to your audience. 

Tips to Avoid the “AI Accent”: 

  1. Review and Edit: Always review and edit AI-generated content to ensure the content flows  naturally and sounds human. 
  2. Add Personal Touch: Incorporate your unique voice and style into the content. Add  anecdotes, examples, or personal insights to make it more engaging and relatable. 3. Use Natural Language: Write like you talk. Use contractions, casual language, and  conversational phrases for authenticity. 
  3. Vary Sentence Length: Mix short and long sentences to create a natural rhythm, keep the  reader engaged, and make the content feel more dynamic. 
  4. Read Aloud: Read the content aloud to check for awkward phrasing or unnatural sentence  structures to ensure the content sounds natural. 

We hope these tips help you connect better with your audience while accelerating your work.

Exploring the Future of Work with Microsoft Copilot

Exploring the Future of Work with Microsoft Copilot: A TechCon365 Recap

Attending the Microsoft TechCon365 Conference in Seattle was an enlightening experience, particularly with the spotlight on Microsoft Copilot. Here’s a recap of my top six standout sessions.

Next Level Productivity with Microsoft Copilot
The journey began with Andy Huneycutt’s all-day workshop which showcased Copilot’s vast capabilities. Key takeaways from the workshop included the detailed overview of Copilot plus the ROI Calculation to measure Copilot’s cost-effectiveness (ROI= Time per iteration × Number of iterations × Hourly rate); a deep dive on Microsoft Graph integration, and an overview of the many Prompt Engineering techniques available.
Process Mining and AI Integration

The Process Mining session showcased the innovative integration of process mining with AI capabilities and how Copilot can analyze data to identify inefficiencies and trends, and then make actionable recommendations. The use of Power BI for creating monitoring dashboards and the anticipation of Copilot for PowerAutomate going live were also significant points of discussion. This integration represents a leap forward in process optimization, offering a glimpse into the future of automated workflow management and data-driven decision-making.

Enhancing Collaboration with Teams Premium
The session on Teams Premium highlighted its advanced features designed to enhance collaboration and meeting experiences. The session covered the add-on license, improved meeting experiences, advanced protection, richer engagement, and the creation of custom meeting templates. Intelligent Teams meetings and recaps were introduced, including automatic generation of meeting notes and tasks from transcriptions, personalized timeline markers, and mentions. The recap tab, available post-meeting, and intelligent speaker recognition were also discussed, emphasizing the need for transcription activation. The meeting underscored Teams Premium’s potential to revolutionize meeting dynamics with its innovative capabilities.
Overcoming Barriers to Copilot Adoption

Stephen Rose’s “Garbage In Garbage Out” session shared the top 10 blockers for Copilot adoption, including data overload and the need for enhanced security opportunities, providing insights for organizations aiming to streamline their technological infrastructure. His recommendations included suggestions around storage that caught the attention of digital hoarders:

  • Outdated information in archives, necessitating the purging of emails older than 12-18 months.
  • Obsolete documents in OneDrive over 3 years old and unused in the last 90 days should be moved to Azure cold storage.
  • Integration of data across platforms, ensuring all data is in the M365 Cloud.
  • Removal of non-integrated third-party apps like Box, Slack, Zoom, and Blue Jeans.
Adaptive Cards: Bringing Tools to Users
Later in the week, Derek Cash-Peterson covered Adaptive Cards, highlighting their integration with Viva Connections and the new Adaptive Card Extensions (ACE). These cards are designed to bring tools directly to users within their work context, serving as a hub for news and resources across Microsoft 365. They offer extensibility for custom functionality, presenting a collection of features accessible through an app bar, the Connections app, and a dashboard in SharePoint. The updated Teams app and mobile-friendly design ensure that Adaptive Cards cater to a wide range of users, including those on the go. With various development options, including no-code, low-code, and pro-code, Adaptive Cards empower many vendors to create web plugins, making them accessible to HR and Marketing professionals who may not be familiar with JSON. The cards are theme-aware, offer different layouts, and provide quick view options, enhancing user experience with efficient navigation and personalized content.
Copilot in OneDrive: Streamline Workflows

My last session of the conference was with Ben Truelove on the new (coming soon) Copilot in OneDrive. His moto: Spend less time doing the work to get your work done. He broke features down into 6 categories.

  • Discover allows users to quickly find information within their files.
  • Catch Up to provide summaries of file updates.
  • Organize to automate content organization,
  • Create to transform existing files into more meaningful content.
  • Banish Busywork to reduce preliminary tasks.

He shared ways to conduct Q&A on files without opening them, compare images for insights, and convert Copilot responses into documents. This final session really emphasized the continuous evolution of Copilot across the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.

Conclusion

TechCon365 offered a glimpse into the future where Microsoft Copilot and its suite of tools will play a pivotal role in the way we work, collaborate, and create. The conference was a testament to Microsoft’s commitment to innovation and productivity, providing a wealth of knowledge and a vision of a more empowered workforce.

Author: Carolyn Humpherys, Learning and Change Management Consultant, Traveling Coaches

Ready to take the next step in AI adoption? Contact us today to learn how Alterity can help you fully unlock the potential of Microsoft 365 Copilot in your organization.

AI Adoption Challenges for Organizations

The business world is experiencing profound transformation, driven by tools like Microsoft Copilot and custom GPTs. These tools promise the moon with enhanced efficiency, streamlined workflows, and improved client service. However, for many organizations, adopting these technologies presents a series of challenges that prevent them from realizing their full benefits. 

Common Challenges

1. Resistance to Change

Organizations often resist adopting new technology due to unfamiliarity, skepticism about their effectiveness, or concerns about disrupting established practices. Overcoming this resistance requires addressing these concerns head-on and demonstrating the tangible benefits of AI tools.

2. Lack of Time and Patience

Some team members may lack the time and patience needed to test and try prompts. This can lead to frustration and underuse of AI technologies. Targeted, hands-on, instructor-led training with relevant use cases is essential to build the skills needed to use AI confidently and effectively.

3. Data Privacy and Security Concerns

Team members handle sensitive client information and must ensure that AI tools comply with stringent data protection regulations. Concerns about data security and privacy are paramount, and any AI tool used must adhere to the highest standards of confidentiality and protection.

4. Uncertainty About ROI

Organizations may be hesitant to invest in AI tools without a clear understanding of the return on investment (ROI). Measuring the impact and value of these tools is crucial to justify their cost and demonstrate their benefits to stakeholders.

How Alterity Can Help

Customized Training Programs

Organizations may be hesitant to invest in AI tools without a clear understanding of the return on investment (ROI). Measuring the impact and value of these tools is crucial to justifying their cost and demonstrating their benefits to stakeholders.

Change Management Strategies

Successful AI adoption involves more than just technical implementation; it requires managing cultural and organizational change. Our change management strategies help organizations overcome resistance and foster a culture of innovation, ensuring a smooth transition to new technologies.

Data Privacy and Security Awareness Training

Protecting sensitive client information is a top priority. We offer guidance on best practices for maintaining data privacy and security while using AI tools, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards.

ROI Assessment and Justification

Understanding the ROI of AI tools is essential for making informed decisions. We help organizations evaluate the impact of these tools, develop metrics to measure success and provide justification for their continued use.

Conclusion

The successful adoption of AI tools like Copilot or custom GPTs can significantly enhance efficiency and client service — but you must overcome the challenges to realize their potential. At Alterity, we support organizations through every step of the adoption process, from change management to training to security awareness and measurement.

Ready to take the next step in AI adoption? Contact us today to learn how Alterity can help you navigate these challenges and harness the power of AI tools in your organization.

Embracing AI: Empowering Organizations for the Future

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a major buzz word, not only in organizations, but all around. However, the use of AI requires significant investments in training and can pose risks if not used with proper care, especially in organizations. It’s critically important that all members of a company engage in ongoing conversations about AI usage and the ethical implications that come along with it. Accepting this fact means that training becomes a vital piece of ensuring your team is set up for success.

Training is vital in unlocking your organization’s AI potential. Ensuring that your teams have the know how to leverage an effective AI tool is key to taking full advantage of the potential benefits from any AI technologies, while mitigating risk. Proper training can involve learning AI’s potential abilities, its potential pitfalls and best practices to utilize AI tools. Doing so will enhance productivity, boost creativity and innovation across the board, and instill a culture determined to progress.

Equally important to training is helping people understand the social and ethical issues at stake, and to make decisions on how it’s used. AI is a tool made by people for people, to be used by people. It can help us expand our power, not replace it. By prioritizing transparency and accountability, organizations can ensure that AI is implemented in such a way that benefits everyone. Clear guidelines and best practices from the initial rollout will ensure that every person feels empowered to take this life changing technology and utilize it both correctly and ethically.

Ultimately, the successful deployment of AI depends on a shared dedication to learning, ethical integrity, and the never-ending pursuit of improvement. Together, we can build a future in which AI enhances our capabilities, sustains our values, and drives our success.

Alterity is ready to help you implement AI responsibly and effectively across your organization. Learn more about our AI Adoption solutions and Contact Us today to discuss how Alterity can help you seamlessly adopt AI for maximum benefits.

How to talk to employees about AI and understand responsible and effective use

Before we get into the specifics of this article, let’s level-set on a few things about Generative Artificial
Intelligence (GenAI):

  • Is it Evil or is it Good? NEITHER. It’s probably best to stop ascribing morality to a technology. It’s in the use of things that it gets such a moniker.
  • Is it intelligent? NO. It is really machine learning based on what it has to learn from (there are some interesting tangential thoughts here – think GIGO …or Garbage In, Garbage Out).
  • Is it AMAZING? Oh yeah, most definitely YES! The technology is extraordinary and has the potential to do things in seconds that would take a really talented person hours.
  • Will it take over the world and be the end of all life as we know it? NO. While it clearly provides the conspiracy theorists with fodder for Skynet references (come on … we’ve all seen Terminator), this technology will be disruptive but not destructive (IMHO).

There are a lot of directions you can take when discussing GenAI for employees and organizations. You can take the complete risk-averse mindset of “Not only NO, but heck NO!” Or you can take the daredevil mindset of “these are innovations that will change everything.” Of particular interest to many industries, however, is a balanced view of both. There are interesting stories around its misuse, some cool stories around efficiency gains, and a whole lot of speculation about its impact on job roles and how it might change the look of the modern-day company. But how do we talk about the GenAI juggernaut with employees? Here are a few things to consider:

Know Your Audience

In fact, I would take this one step further. Don’t assume you know your audience. Ask them. A mistake many have made over the years is to take a new technology and try to “make it fit” into an employee’s way of working. Instead, we should start with the business issue(s) facing the employee and how this can help solve the business need(s). The best way to know the business issues facing employees …is to ask employees.

Something else to consider … what matters to you may not matter to your employee. Always approach the introduction of technology changes with employees based on the real (not perceived) business needs of the employee.

Know the Ethical Guiding Principles to which All Organizations Are Bound

Ethical rules are not just platitudes or suggestions or “it would be nice if” types of things for some businesses and employees. They are rules that some are bound by and that they’ve sworn to. For example, there are sanctions for not staying within the ethical guidelines established for lawyers. This is no small thing. Lawyers are held to a higher standard …and they should be. This is also not a bad thing. In fact, it’s a good thing. Ethical standards and rules help tremendously when faced with a decision tree moment. For example, they provide guidance and direction for when to and when not to use certain technologies (which is OH SO relevant to the GenAI discussion).

The American Bar Association’s (ABA) model rules are guides for this discussion. For reference, the ABA sets model rules that are, in most cases, adopted by each state for lawyers with their State Bar in that state. Using the ABA’s model rules provides us with a broad, yet widely adopted place to start. Two notable rules come to mind.

Duty of Competence: Let’s cover some salient points to this rule:
It requires you to maintain requisite knowledge and skill. It also makes clear that things are constantly changing, and an employee has a responsibility to stay current …including technologically. The laws and rules around the use of GenAI are changing by the minute. In fact, some judges are adding rules for their court specifically around the use of GenAI. It requires you to understand the risks and benefits associated with relevant technology. See any connections here to the use of GenAI? You are required to be aware not only of the good things (the benefits), but also the not-so-good things (the risks).

Duty of Confidentiality: This one should be clear, but sometimes gets lost in the practical application. Comment 16 to this rule states that “Reasonable precautions” must be taken to safeguard and preserve confidential information. Understanding the technology tools and how they handle, store, and secure access to confidential information is part of that reasonable precaution mandate. 

What about Data Privacy? It has been said that public GenAI solutions are the exact opposite of Data Privacy. Adding confidential information to a public GenAI solution makes that confidential information very public. Data Privacy laws are changing rapidly world-wide. All ethical use of GenAI solutions must align with an organization’s responsibility to maintain data privacy and protection. It’s the law.

Take a Balanced Approach

Employees want a breakdown of the facts so they can make informed decisions. Employees also want practical and actionable steps to use a technology like GenAI. Put GenAI topics into ethical and effective use case scenarios. Find the uses of GenAI that add efficiencies and solve business problems without violating their ethical requirements. Align the discussions of the effective use of GenAI with the policies and procedures established by the organization and its core values.

About the Author

Kenny Leckie

Traveling Coaches | Senior Technology & Change Management Consultant

In his role as Senior Technology and Change Management Consultant, Kenny provides thought leadership and consulting to the legal community in areas of information security/cybersecurity awareness, change management, user adoption, adult learning, employee engagement, professional development, and business strategy. He also works with clients to develop and deploy customized programs with an emphasis on user adoption and increased return on investment. Kenny is a Prosci
Certified Change Practitioner, a Certified Technical Trainer and has earned the trust of firms across the US, Canada, The UK, Europe and Australia.

Kenny has more than thirty years of combined experience as a law firm Chief Information Officer, Manager of Support & Training, and now consultant providing him a unique point of view and understanding of the challenges of introducing change in law firms. He combines his years of experience with a strategic approach to help clients implement programs that allows focus on the business while minimizing risk to confidential, protected, and sensitive information. Kenny is an author and speaker and a winner of ILTA’s 2018 Innovative Consultant of the Year.

Why training is essential to your AI strategy

Generative AI, seen in models like OpenAI’s GPT series, is a revolutionary leap in machine learning. AI solutions such as Microsoft Copilot and NetDocuments PatternBuilder MAX are working to address past security concerns, access control issues, and privacy constraints critical across many industries. Effective use of these AI tools by professionals, however, depends on user prompts, strategic document corpus utilization, and an ongoing commitment to innovation.  

Because there is a learning curve in transitioning from traditional methods, a well-executed training program is essential for the efficient adoption of these technologies. Customized training programs, tailored to each organization’s workflows, ensure a thorough understanding of AI functionalities and create a culture of learning that helps firms thrive.

Addressing the Learning Curve

Recognizing the dynamic nature of AI, organizations must provide continuous learning opportunities. Updates and enhancements are regular, and staff must stay current on the latest developments in AI tools. This proactive approach ensures that the investment in AI technology yields long-term benefits. To bridge this gap, organizations need comprehensive training that covers the functionalities of tools like Copilot and ndMAX. This support ensures that employees can harness the full potential of these AI solutions from day one.

Customized Training Programs

Organizations operate with unique workflows and business practices. Therefore, a one-size-fits-all training approach may not be sufficient. Tailored training programs that align with the specific requirements, use cases, and focus areas of any industry are essential. These programs should not only cover the basics but also delve into advanced features, maximizing the utility of AI tools in day-to-day operations.

Navigating the AI Arena

Navigating the complexities of AI adoption, particularly with tools like Copilot and ndMAX, requires more than technical knowledge. Leveraging Copilot’s AI-powered code suggestions and understanding how ndMAX’s generative AI enhances business document workflows, empowers professionals to maximize the capabilities of these tools in day-to-day operations. Highlighting the benefits of AI adoption and showcasing success stories illustrate how these tools enhance human expertise rather than replace it. Effective training goes beyond the technical knowledge to instill confidence in teams to embrace AI as a valuable asset.

Continuous Learning Opportunities

The field of AI is dynamic, with updates and enhancements regularly introduced. Organizations must provide continuous learning opportunities to their staff, keeping them up to speed with the latest developments in generative AI tools like Microsoft Copilot and NetDocuments. This proactive approach ensures that as firms invest in AI technology they will continue to reap the long-term benefits. 

While AI solutions like Microsoft Copilot and NetDocuments offer immense potential for many professionals, the journey towards a future-ready organization necessitates a commitment to training. Investing in comprehensive and customized training programs ensures that organizations not only unlock the efficiency promised by AI but also empower their professionals to navigate the evolving landscape of technology with confidence and proficiency.

Alterity is your AI training partner

At Alterity, we recognize that the true power of AI lies in the hands of educated and empowered users. As a comprehensive AI training partner, Alterity emphasizes the importance of acquiring cutting-edge tools alongside investing in knowledge and skills. This dual approach ensures the effective utilization of AI tools. Reach out to us today to discuss your AI training and adoption plan. 

How AI Can Transform Your Business

Businesses are facing a seismic shift with the arrival of artificial intelligence (AI). Its transformative potential holds immense promise for employees, offering greater efficiency, improved accuracy, and enhanced client service. However, harnessing this power requires a strategic approach grounded in both ethical considerations and unwavering commitment to security.

AI in Action:

Research Revolution: Utilize tools like Netdocuments ndMAX and Microsoft 365 Copilot to scour databases with laser-like precision. Uncover critical details in seconds, freeing you from the manual research grind.

Drafting Dynamo: AI-powered writing assistants like Gemini can craft messages, clear and concise emails, allowing you to focus on strategy and client interactions.

Predictive Prowess: AI analyzes trends and past outcomes to offer valuable insights. Predicts, identifies, and optimizes with AI-powered forecasting.

Client Care Champion: Chatbots powered by AI can be your 24/7 client concierge, fielding basic questions, scheduling appointments, and offering resources. Happy clients, happy business!

Safety First:

Data Defender: Choose AI tools with robust data security measures. Prioritize established platforms like Microsoft 365 Copilot or Netdocuments ndMAX built with data protection at their core.

Transparency Advocate: Understand the limitations and potential biases of AI algorithms. Be open and transparent with clients about how AI is used in your industry.

Human in the Loop: Remember, AI is a powerful tool, not a replacement for human judgment. The final decision-making always rests with you. Use AI to augment your expertise, not replace it.

Navigating the AI Arena

ChatGPT: This creative writing whiz is a great brainstorming tool, but its capabilities are still under development. Think of it as a muse, not a trusted companion.

Microsoft, Bing, and Google Gemini: These search engines are masters of general information, but they lack the nuances needed for your business. Think of them as helpful librarians, not advisors.

Remember: AI is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Carefully research and compare tools like Netdocuments ndMAX and Microsoft 365 Copilot to find the perfect fit for your business and expertise.

Embrace the future and let AI take your business to new heights. With careful selection, responsible use, and a healthy dose of critical thinking, AI can be your business’s secret weapon, helping you deliver with greater speed, accuracy, and efficiency.

Don’t let data entry, manipulation, and analysis drag your team down. Transform them into streamlined workflows with our AI training program. Master data cleanliness with AI-powered pattern recognition, formula suggestions, and best practices to ensure accuracy and analysis-readiness. Level up your Excel game by discovering intricate calculations and automation techniques, accelerating your data manipulation skills. Dive deeper with advanced analysis like pivot tables, charts, and data summaries to unlock hidden trends and make data-driven decisions with confidence. Fine-tune your workflows, eliminate redundancies, and troubleshoot common issues, saving you valuable time.

Don’t let AI intimidate your team! Alterity turns this powerful technology into a practical tool, boosting your team’s efficiency, accuracy, and data analysis confidence. Connect with us today and see your skills, and your business, be empowered!