A new white paper has revealed concerns over artificial
technology (AI) being used in event planning.
The white paper, authored by The Hague & Partners
Convention Bureau and Ottawa Tourism, has identified that 63 per cent of global
association buyers are either ‘very concerned’ or ‘slightly concerned’ about
the ethical implications of using AI in event organising.
Ottawa Tourism’s vice president of meeting and major events,
Lesley Pincombe, said the white paper aims to go beyond discussion about what AI
can do, and instead look at the limitations and opportunities of integrating it
into event organisations.
“There is no denying AI can do incredible things. However,
should we allow it, when should we apply the brakes, communicate better and
focus on humanity rather than technology?” Pincombe added.
Officially launching in December, the white paper examines the
ethical implications of AI usage across the global association event industry.
Those concerned with the use of AI in events also think governments should legislate the use of
AI in event organising, but 65 per cent think governments lack the required
knowledge to be able to legislate effectively.
Of particular concern for the respondents is the usage and
retention of the data obtained by technology companies through AI, with 13 per
cent of the respondents purporting not to trust AI technology providers.
Is there a way forward?
As one possible solution, 52 per cent of the respondents are
in favour of an International Standard (ISO) to cover the use of AI in events. A
further 29 per cent said ‘maybe’ such a standard should be created; just seven
per cent were against a AI standard.
“AI is inevitable, and it is already impacting our lives in
many ways,” said Bas Schot, head of The Hague & Partners Convention Bureau.
“Those individuals and organisations thinking it is something that will not
impact them clearly don’t realise just how ingrained it is in our world
already. It is all too easy to just think in terms of generative artificial
intelligence, however AI is so much more, and we need to harness the power of
it in a way that is ethical and positive for everyone.”
In addition to the survey, the white paper is being created
following interviews and round table discussions with experts from the
association and AI sectors. The full
white paper will cover these topics in more detail, explore areas of concern
for the industry and question whether the sector is upskilling quickly enough
to meet the growing usage of AI as a technology.
