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Expansion of UK DSIT will improve efficiency and shift AI focus
15 Jul 2024, 10:56 am
A recent UK government announcement to expand the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) will not just bring benefit to public sector efficiency, but may mean artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer considered in isolation, an expert has said.
The move is part of a UK government plan to try to transform public services and improve economic growth by using digital tools, data, and AI technology.
The DSIT will grow in both scope and size, incorporating experts from the Government Digital Service (GDS), the Central Digital and Data Office (CDDO), and the Incubator for AI (i.AI). This integration aims to consolidate efforts in the digital transformation of public services under one department, streamlining processes to improve efficiency.
Sarah Cameron, technology law expert at Pinsent Masons, said: “The government’s consolidation of DSIT, GDS and CDDO is really good news. It may result in less focus on just generative AI and more of a focus in terms of convergence of technologies, as these forms of technology are all linked.”
The goals of this expansion also include uniting digital and data experts to create a more personalised, convenient, and time-saving experience for firms and citizens. For instance, the departments plan to implement a single login system to allow access to various government services both quickly and securely.
The expansion also sets out to foster innovation and investment in science and technology, with aims to enhance productivity and create new opportunities for growth. This includes supporting research and development in areas such as energy, health, policing and education.
The DSIT will collaborate with other government departments, industry, and research communities to help maximise the impact of digital, data, and technology initiatives to modernise and improve services.
As part of the broader plans, the DSIT will also aim to safely and equitably deploy new technologies across the UK. These plans include developing appropriate infrastructure and regulatory frameworks to support the widespread adoption of digital and AI solutions. By doing do, the department aims to ensure that benefits of technological advancements are widely available while potential risks are mitigated.
“The combination and holistic viewpoint should be very helpful and powerful,” said Cerys Wyn Davies, an expert in AI and intellectual property law at Pinsent Masons.
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