In this series, AI Start — Understanding AI without a technical background, we explore step by step what AI is, how it works in everyday work processes and how professionals can use it consciously and responsibly.
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AI always works with data
AI always needs information to function.
We call that information data.
Data can take many forms:
- texts
- documents
- numbers
- emails
- reports
- meeting minutes
When an AI tool summarises a document, the system uses the text in that document.
When an AI tool rewrites an email, the system uses the information you enter.
In other words:
AI always works with data.
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Data moves through work processes
In organisations, data continually moves through workflows.
For example:
- a customer sends an email
- a report is written
- documents are shared
- meeting minutes are saved
When AI tools are used in these processes, that information can also be processed by AI systems.
For example, when someone asks a tool to:
- summarise a document
- rewrite an email
- analyse a report
That makes it important to ask:
What data am I actually using here?
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Handling information consciously
Not all data is the same.
Some information is public.
Other information may be more sensitive.
For example:
- personal data
- internal documents
- draft policies
- confidential reports
When such information is used in AI tools, it is important to consider:
- where the data goes
- how the tool handles that information
- whether using the data is responsible
AI literacy therefore also means handling data consciously.
Summary
AI systems always work with data. When professionals use AI, information from their work processes is entered into these systems.
In the final article in this series, we bring everything together and explore what AI literacy means for professionals.