RDA Sydney’s Responsible Artificial Intelligence Uplift and Optimisation
Overview:
RDA Sydney began implementing a structured Artificial Intelligence (AI) training and adoption program to improve the efficiency, consistency and quality of recurring operational tasks. The initiative focused on building reusable processes that reduce time spent on report preparation, board documentation and policy submissions, freeing staff capacity for regional development priorities, stakeholder engagement and strategic communications.
AI Capability Process:
To illustrate the program’s approach, RDA Sydney’s Continuous Improvement Loop shows how AI capability is developed, tested and refined through six iterative stages.
Stages:
- Assess Tasks – Identify where AI adds value using clear criteria.
- Build Shared Instructions – Define role, tone and boundaries.
- Train and Test – Apply AI to real documents and refine prompts.
- Apply to Real Work – Implement across submissions, reports and board papers.
- Review Accuracy and Security – Maintain oversight and confidentiality.
- Refine and Expand – Improve processes and extend to new tasks.
This cycle demonstrates how RDA Sydney integrates AI responsibly, ensuring human oversight and continuous improvement.
Early Benefits:
Workshop estimates indicate significant potential time savings:
Figures are indicative targets; further testing will asses accuracy, quality and revision effort.
Training reinforced restrictions on processing confidential material and the need for staff to review AI-generated work before external use. Staff retained responsibility for accuracy and final approval.
Next Steps:
- Refine processes through regular use
- Formalise governance arrangements
- Identify approaches suitable for sharing with other RDAs
- Continue improving operational efficiency while maintaining strong oversight, quality and security