How and why I do (and don’t) use AI
I use AI for a variety of reasons in my work and in the spirit of transparency I’d like to share this openly. If you work with me as a client or collaborator here’s how I’m likely to use AI.
The quality and depth of my work relies on my knowledge and expertise. Part of my process to build and strengthen knowledge is to read, listen, consider, have conversations (with real human beings!), experiment, test and learn. The approaches I propose and implement in my work come from lessons learnt and real life experience.
As a result I am unlikely to use AI in the following situations:
Generate written content - for proposals and/or applications or in the creation of written communications such as emails.
To answer interview questions - for example during an interview with a potential client I will not be using an AI tool to provide prompts to respond to questions I am asked.
To review or analyse client documents - I will not input data or information provided by a client into an AI tool (such as ChatGPT) unless specifically agreed.
To capture meeting notes - I do not use an AI note taker because taking notes is part of my process of active listening. When I am meeting with a client it is usually to agree actions and next steps, therefore I do not need detailed notes. I appreciate we may discuss information during our meetings that should remain confidential, I do not use note takers in part for this reason as I do not have control over how that information is protected and stored.
To synthesise research - most of my projects involve a phase of desk research. The purpose of this phase is for me to build my knowledge. I do this by deeply exploring information. I do not use AI to synthesise documents as I feel this prevents me from meaningfully building my own knowledge.
I may use AI in the following situations:
Content presentation - I may use MagicDesign in Canva to explore better ways to present information in a document (including a proposal or application).
To find sources - most of my projects include a phase of desk research. In the first instance I will draw on sources known to me and the client/team I am working with. I may use tools such as ChatGPT, Google Scholar and Litmaps to search for relevant sources which I may otherwise miss.
Predictive impact analysis - in my work supporting organisations to create an approach to impact measurement I am frequently using AI tools to predict future impact based on a series of variables to determine what resources and enabling conditions may be needed to support an organisation to achieve their goals.
Planning - I may use Claude to help plan activities. For example I may ask Claude a prompt such as:
I am planning to run a series of workshops between 15th May and 30th June, are there any national holidays, school holidays or dates I should avoid scheduling activities during these dates.
