Esomar forms group to create AI guidance

The group, comprising Esomar council members, staff, and industry representatives, aims to educate, raise awareness and develop guidelines for the use of AI in the industry.

It will also conduct research, publish reports and work with individuals and other associations on issues relating to AI.

The group is open to any interested parties to join, according to Esomar.

Ray Poynter, president at Esomar, said: “The scale and speed of AI, plus its differing impact on various groups, countries and research methodologies, is too big for any one team to manage. 

“Our AI task force is designed to bring together as many different groups as possible to facilitate shared learning, as well as make significant progress toward much-needed standards and guidelines for the global insights industry.”

Businesses across the research sector have introduced generative AI-based services since the launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT tool at the end of last year.

The Information Commissioner’s Office has warned that organisations developing generative AI should consider data protection obligations from the outset.

Jane Frost, chief executive, MRS, said: “The AI explosion raises as many issues as it does opportunities, and MRS is working on a number of these. MRS has already been working with the ICO on issues raised by the use of AI in research and has contributed to the government’s consultation on the regulation of AI.

“In addition, MRS guidance will soon be available as well as on-demand training and a major project, a new collaboration between MRS Delphi Group and MRS Data Analytics Council, is scheduled for October.”