Purpose

This paper will set out proposals for how the
organisation might benefit from the careful, ethical and secure
introduction of AI tools. It will seek approval to deliver a
pipeline of AI projects through utilisation of the Council's
Investment Fund.

Decision

Resolved
 
That Cabinet
 
1)   
Endorses the principle of exploring the introduction of Artificial
Intelligence (AI) solutions to service operating models where it is
appropriate, safe, ethical and cost effective to do so;
 
2)   
Reviews the proposed pipeline of AI activity and authorises the
Executive Director for Resources to develop this further into a
prioritised programme of work, to approve individual projects
within the programme in line with the principles set out in this
report, and to approve the draw down of funding to implement
them;
 
3)   
Approves the allocation of up to £730k from the
Council’s Revenue Investment Fund to enable delivery of this
work;
 
4)   
Approves the principle that all projects accessing this funding
will be expected to deliver financial savings that will contribute
to the Medium-Term Financial Strategy, and requests that updates be
provided to Cabinet and the relevant Overview and Scrutiny
Committees via the quarterly Integrated Performance reports;
and
 
5)   
Authorises the Executive Director for Resources, in consultation
with the Portfolio Holder for Customer and Localities, to commence
any necessary procurement processes and enter into all relevant
agreements necessary to implement the individual projects once
approved in line with the process set out in this report.