The global skills and competency framework for the digital world

Artificial intelligence (AI) and data ethics AIDE

Implementing and promoting ethical practices in the design, development, deployment and use of AI and data technologies.

Revision notes

Updates for SFIA 9

  • This is a new skill introduced in SFIA 9.
  • Theme(s) influencing the updates for this new skill: Continued refinement for AI/ML Ops skills.
  • Previous SFIA assessments or skills mapping of other SFIA skills are not impacted by this new skill.

Guidance notes

Includes principles such as fairness, accountability, transparency and privacy. Ethical considerations encompass issues like bias in algorithms, data privacy, the impact of automation on employment and the societal implications of emerging technologies.

Activities may include, but are not limited to:

  • providing expert advice on ethical policies, procedures and governance
  • designing AI and data systems that embed ethical considerations
  • conducting ethical impact assessments to identify risks and ensure responsible use of technology
  • responding to ethical dilemmas and incidents
  • keeping up to date with ethical standards, regulations and recommended practices
  • creating ethical risk models and frameworks
  • collaborating with experts in fields such as legal, public relations, data science and AI
  • promoting a culture of ethical awareness and responsibility within the organisation.

Understanding the responsibility levels of this skill

Where lower levels are not defined...
  • Specific tasks and responsibilities are not defined because the skill requires a higher level of autonomy, influence, and complexity in decision-making than is typically expected at these levels. You can use the essence statements to understand the generic responsibilities associated with these levels.
Where higher levels are not defined...
  • Responsibilities and accountabilities are not defined because these higher levels involve strategic leadership and broader organisational influence that goes beyond the scope of this specific skill. See the essence statements.

Developing skills and demonstrating responsibilities related to this skill

The defined levels show the incremental progression in skills and responsibilities.

Where lower levels are not defined...

You can develop your knowledge and support others who do have responsibility in this area by:

  • Learning key concepts and principles related to this skill and its impact on your role
  • Performing related skills (see the related SFIA skills)
  • Supporting others who are performing higher level tasks and activities
Where higher levels are not defined...
  • You can progress by developing related skills which are better suited to higher levels of organisational leadership.

Show/hide extra descriptions and levels.

Levels of responsibility for this skill

3 4 5 6

Artificial intelligence (AI) and data ethics: Level 3

Level 3 - Apply: Essence of the level: Performs varied tasks, sometimes complex and non-routine, using standard methods and procedures. Works under general direction, exercises discretion, and manages own work within deadlines. Proactively enhances skills and impact in the workplace.

Supports ethical reviews and conducts basic impact assessments under direction.

Gathers and analyses information for assessments. Reports on ethical issues and compliance with guidance from others. Documents findings from audits and reviews.

Assists with documentation and communication of ethical policies.

Supports others in responding to incidents.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and data ethics: Level 4

Level 4 - Enable: Essence of the level: Performs diverse complex activities, supports and guides others, delegates tasks when appropriate, works autonomously under general direction, and contributes expertise to deliver team objectives.

Engages stakeholders to communicate ethical considerations and influence design decisions.

Conducts detailed impact assessments and makes recommendations. Manages ethical reviews to ensure compliance with standards.

Evaluates risks and proposes measures to address ethical concerns. Leads discussions with stakeholders on ethical issues.

Designs and executes ethical impact assessments. Prepares reports based on audit findings.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and data ethics: Level 5

Level 5 - Ensure, advise: Essence of the level: Provides authoritative guidance in their field and works under broad direction. Accountable for delivering significant work outcomes, from analysis through execution to evaluation.

Provides expert advice to integrate ethics into AI and data projects and programmes.

Oversees governance and assurance activities. Reviews and approves impact assessments and audits.

Promotes awareness of ethical principles and their application across the organisation.

Contributes to the development of policy, standards and guidelines related to AI and data ethics.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and data ethics: Level 6

Level 6 - Initiate, influence: Essence of the level: Has significant organisational influence, makes high-level decisions, shapes policies, demonstrates leadership, promotes organisational collaboration, and accepts accountability in key areas.

Sets direction for ethics in AI and data initiatives. Defines governance processes to ensure compliance with ethical standards.

Engages with industry bodies and experts to develop and drive industry recommended practices.

Develops and implements strategic ethical frameworks. Leads high-level reviews and decision-making processes.

Allocates resources to support the organisation’s commitment to ethical practices. Ensures the organisation has resources and skills for ethical assurance.

Keywords
New skill