What does AI mean in practice?
AI is software that support human work by generating predictions, content or recommendations based on the data provided to it.
With the help of AI, the City can process more data, faster.
At the City of Helsinki, we make use of AI designed for both residents and employees.
AI can, for example:
- answer your questions via chatbots on various services;
- help you search for and find information;
- help you access services in your own language.
Humans are responsible for the operation of AI
AI is not an independent or conscious entity, but rather technology controlled by humans. It always operates on the basis of objectives and guidelines set by people.
All the AI used by the City of Helsinki is supervised by humans. Every AI system has a designated person responsible who can, if necessary, intervene in its operation or override it.
AI does not make decisions; it is people who are responsible for the City’s decisions.
How can AI benefit you?
AI helps you do things more quickly and smoothly, thereby making everyday life easier for both Helsinki residents and City employees.
Thanks to AI, many services are now more readily and widely available to you:
You can get answers to your questions without having to queue.
You can access services whenever it suits you, regardless of the opening hours of service points.
You can find information more easily.
Be aware of the limitations
The City is always responsible for the accuracy of the information provided to you when using AI and when providing you with services with the help of AI.
If you look up information about the City’s services or decision-making processes using AI services other than those provided by the City, it is possible that the information presented to you by the service may be incorrect or out of date.
You can find up-to-date information on the City’s website or directly from the customer service department of the service that you are using.
When you use the City’s services or the AI solutions provided by the City:
- you are openly informed about the use of AI and provided with instructions on how to use it;
- we protect your privacy and your rights;
- we are responsible for the accuracy of the information provided and for the decision-making process.
You can always ask about the use of AI when accessing the City’s services.
When you use AI provided by someone else or come across content generated by AI:
- find out where the information you submit ends up and for what purposes it may be used;
- do not submit other people’s personal data or images to the AI without their consent;
- check the information provided by the AI against a reliable source;
- keep in mind that you are communicating with a piece of technology, not a sentient being.