We have recently introduced our AI in Professional Services Community – a new space where colleagues from across higher and further education can come together to explore how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of professional services. Meeting once a month, our members can discus the opportunities and challenges that come with the responsible adoption of AI.
Our first session saw an excellent turnout and lively discussion, highlighting the growing interest across the sector in how AI can be integrated thoughtfully and effectively into everyday professional services work. Some key discussions were:
Governance and Responsible Use
Governance emerged as a leading priority amongst our members. Many institutions are developing frameworks to manage the introduction of AI tools responsibly, ensuring compliance with data protection laws and organisational ethics. Around 70% of those represented have begun formal data protection impact assessments (DPIAs), while others are adopting structured ethical review processes to evaluate AI projects before rollout.
This conversation reinforced that governance isn’t about slowing innovation – it’s about enabling it safely. When staff understand the boundaries and expectations around AI use, they are more confident to explore and apply it meaningfully.
Education and Staff Development
Education is at the heart of responsible AI adoption. Participants discussed the importance of raising awareness of both the benefits and risks associated with AI, such as data privacy concerns, misinformation, and bias. Institutions are responding with training programmes that help Professional Services staff develop practical skills and ethical understanding. Some institutions are introducing targeted sessions on specific tools, including ChatGPT and Copilot, while others are embedding AI literacy into broader skills training. The shared goal is to ensure that staff feel supported, capable, and confident to use AI effectively and in line with institutional policies.
Balancing Risk and Opportunity
Across the discussion, there was a clear recognition of AI’s dual nature – its potential to streamline work and its risks if used carelessly. Several institutions reported significant improvements in efficiency, particularly within HR and administrative functions, while also acknowledging the importance of human oversight in maintaining fairness and trust.
The overall message was that responsible AI is not a technical challenge alone; it’s a cultural one. Balancing innovation with care requires shared understanding, strong leadership, and clear communication across teams.
AI in Practice
Attendees shared examples of successful AI implementations already making a difference in Professional Services. These included the use of chatbots to support staff and student queries, automated HR workflows that save time and reduce errors, and AI-driven data analysis tools that enhance decision making.
These projects demonstrate how well-designed AI applications can deliver tangible benefits, such as faster response times and reduced administrative workloads. However, participants emphasised that every project should begin with clear objectives and an awareness of ethical responsibilities.
Transparency and Data Challenges
Transparency was also highlighted as a defining principle of responsible AI use. Participants discussed the need to clearly communicate how AI tools are applied, what data they rely on, and how decisions are made. This openness builds trust within institutions and supports accountability.
Several institutions also raised challenges related to legacy data. Integrating AI with older systems can surface outdated or sensitive information, underlining the importance of strong data management practices and iterative testing before implementation at scale.
Our next meeting will be on 12th November 2025 15:30-16:30, we hope to see many of you there.
Useful Links
Insights from Jisc’s internal AI impact workshop – Where AI fits: insights from Jisc’s internal AI impact workshop – Artificial intelligence
University of Liverpool’s guidance on Gen AI – University Guidance on the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in learning, teaching, and assessment
University of Oxford’s guide to AI for Professional Services staff – Getting started with AI for Professional Services Staff | AI Competency Centre
Coleg Cambria’s Teaching and Learning AI Toolkit – Understanding AI in Education
Find out more by visiting our Artificial Intelligence page to explore publications and resources, learn more about our communities and sign up for our AI Literacy training.
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Get in touch with the team directly at AI@jisc.ac.uk