Dear Ethicist,
My organization is considering implementing a new tool that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to segment our database for prioritizing outreach communications. There is concern among staff about the ethical implications of this idea; the prospect development team has been asked to weigh in on the tool and highlight any concerns. A colleague just returned from a conference where a presenter mentioned that any organization not embracing AI is a dinosaur and will be left behind. This point has caused some angst in the office.
Our PD team is overwhelmed with increased news coverage of AI tools like ChatGPT and the flurry of think pieces on AI and the future. Where do we start?
Sincerely,
The Robots Are Coming!
Dear Robots,
It’s exciting that your organization is grounding the decision to select a new tool or process in an ethical framework. You can always check the Apra Vendor Due Diligence Toolkit for guidance on picking a vendor.
With so much chatter about AI, it can be hard to figure out what news is relevant to you. Here are some Apra resources currently available that may help you through your quandary:
And there is more AI-related content planned! In the next issue of Ask the Ethicist, the Apra Ethics and Compliance Committee will look into ChatGPT and its ethical implications. Plus, stay tuned for an AI-focused webinar coming this summer from Apra’s Online Content Committee.
If you’re not yet embracing AI, you’re not a dinosaur. You’re learning and being cautious. Taking a moment to review a decision with an ethical lens is never a bad idea.
Cheers!
The Ethicist
The Apra Ethics and Compliance Committee monitors current ethics and privacy trends and issues, while offering timely guidance to the Apra and broader philanthropic communities. The committee is responsible for writing articles, presentations and webinars, as well as creating and updating practical toolkits and guides related to ethics in fundraising. Learn more about the committee online here.