Appropriate Use Policy

All employees of the Government of British Columbia are required to read and follow the Appropriate Use Policy (PDF), which establishes high-level requirements for accessing and managing government information and using information technology resources.

The Application and Software Guide (PDF) provides employees with tips and tools for downloading applications and software to government-owned devices.

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Interim guidance on generative AI: A message from CJ Ritchie

I know that many of you have questions about whether you can and should use generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, like ChatGPT, in your work. AI presents a transformative opportunity for government to save time, create efficiency and improve services to British Columbians.

While we are optimistic about the potential of AI and encourage exploration, we recognize that advanced technologies can raise important challenges that must be addressed with clarity and intention. We all need to understand that AI is an evolving technology that has limitations and unique risks.

For example, generative AI can produce content that seems plausible, but may contain incorrect or incomplete information. This means that results produced by a generative AI tool shouldn’t be taken at face value and will always require human oversight or intervention. AI can also present risks related to privacy and security. As with the use of any new technology, the use of AI should be consistent with the expectations set out in Standards of Conduct for all public service employees. The benefit of an AI tool depends on its careful and responsible use.

That’s why I’m pleased to share that the Office of the Chief Information Officer is in the early stages of developing a policy framework for the trustworthy and responsible use of AI. The AI Framework will support our decision making around the use of AI, and provide best practice guidance on:

• Developing and using AI systems responsibly and transparently
• Governing with clear values and ethics in a manner that maintains and enhances the public’s trust and confidence in the public service
• Safeguarding privacy and security

We will also be updating the Appropriate Use Policy.

To bridge the gap as we develop a more robust policy framework, I am providing the following interim guidance on the use of generative AI tools:

Interim guidance on the use of generative AI

1. Employees must not put any confidential information, including personal information, into third-party generative AI tools like ChatGPT, unless the tool has been approved for government use.
2. Employees who use generative AI tools must review the outputs to ensure that they are factually accurate, complete and up-to-date. Since generative AI tools do not provide sources for content, there may also be copyright or intellectual property considerations.
3. Employees who use generative AI tools must review and edit text to ensure that the language is inclusive, respectful and in alignment with government style guides and other drafting standards.

I look forward to sharing more information with you as work on the AI Policy Framework progresses over the coming months.

If you have any questions about AI or any other IM IT policy matter, please reach out to the Strategic Policy and Legislation Branch at im.itpolicy@gov.bc.ca.

Sincerely,

CJ Ritchie
Associate Deputy Minister and Government Chief Information Officer
Office of the Chief Information Officer
Ministry of Citizens’ Services