Report

Getting the machine learning

This report from UK think tank Reform sets out practical recommendations for overhauling the approach to AI

This report from UK think tank Reform is a step-by-step guide to adopting AI in the areas of government where it has the most promise. AI has the potential to drastically transform government for the better, increasing efficiency and cutting costs. Other governments and the private sector are already seeing the benefits from using AI at scale.

However inadequate central leadership, ‘pilotitus’, funding gaps and disproportionate risk aversion are preventing AI from scaling up across the UK’s public sector.

The successful adoption, at scale, of new technologies has transformed society. To achieve this for AI in public services, a clear focus is needed on the areas which are most amenable to change and where there is a proven track record of impact. The government should not wait for future AI innovations to drive productivity, but instead should focus on using the ones which already exist — and are often widely deployed in the private sector — to full effect.

Getting the machine learning sets out practical recommendations for overhauling the approach to AI, with greater central leadership, more flexible funding and a less risk-averse approach to testing.