Dorset Council says Artificial Intelligence has already started to build a more efficient workforce, freeing up capacity to provide better services, despite fears about AI use. The authority says the technology is widely used across the council, which is taking part in a Government initiative to test AI tools to improve services and efficiency. A council spokesperson said types of AI technologies have been used for some time for digital tasks, incorporating data science to uncover patterns, summarising documents and sorting information, enabling better decision-making, improving efficiency and enhancing customer service. AI is widely used in many of its information technology systems, including Microsoft Copilot, described as a secure platform where information stays within the council, with strict rules limiting other AI tools and close monitoring of automated systems. New systems being trialled include one to help with meeting transcription and creating summaries for committee and other meeting minutes. The council is part of a UK Government initiative called the Incubator for AI, which helps public sector organisations explore and test AI tools, identifying problems, developing and trialling AI solutions, and supporting departments with guidance and resources under a framework prioritising responsible and ethical use. All AI projects follow its Responsible AI Framework ensuring transparency, fairness and accountability, with every tool assessed and approved before use and a human kept in the loop. The council is considering proposals to use AI in “highly pressured areas” such as early health & care planning where vast amounts of data need to be synthesized.