Background
Government has made artificial intelligence (AI) central to its plans for public service reform and productivity improvement. It has committed to a range of initiatives to support AI adoption across the public sector and to help government improve efficiency, deliver higher-quality public services, and secure value for money.
The NAO’s 2024 report examined government’s use of AI and barriers to wider adoption. There have since been changes to responsibilities for AI policy and adoption as part of machinery of government changes. This study will examine progress made since that report and whether government is creating the conditions for AI to deliver sustainable improvements in productivity and value for money.
Scope
This study will focus on the centre of government’s role in leading AI adoption and helping public bodies deliver lasting productivity gains. The study will examine:
- whether the centre of government has established clear direction, responsibilities, and the effective levers needed to deliver productivity gains from AI
- whether the centre of government has put in place the enabling conditions needed for departments to identify, test, adapt, embed and scale successful AI-enabled approaches
- whether departments are using AI to deliver measurable and sustainable productivity improvements and value for money
The study will not examine government’s support for AI adoption in the wider economy, including regulation, or assess AI adoption by local government and other wider public sector bodies.
NAO team
Director: Ruth Kelly
Study Manager: Philip Bradburn