The Smithsonian’s policy on the use of Artificial Intelligence

Secretary Bunch introduces the Smithsonian’s policy on AI, designed to empower the responsible use of artificial intelligence.

 

For 179 years, the Smithsonian Institution has been dedicated to our most important mission: the increase and diffusion of knowledge. Today, I am pleased to announce an exciting step forward in advancing that mission as we launch our new policy for the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across the Smithsonian.

Our new AI Policy underscores the Institution’s commitment to empowering Smithsonian staff with cutting-edge technologies that enhance how we discover, preserve, and share knowledge with the world. By embracing innovation, we position Smithsonian staff to fulfill our mission at an accelerated pace and scale while maintaining the ethical and scholarly standards that have defined us throughout our history.

Our approach to using AI is guided by three foundational principles that align with our institutional values:

• Innovation: We will apply AI strategically to advance our capabilities in research, education, and public engagement, exploring new possibilities for knowledge discovery and dissemination.
• Transparency: We will maintain clear communication about our AI usage, ensuring that staff and the public understand our methods and can trust our practices.
• Responsibility: We will uphold rigorous standards for privacy, security, and ethics, consistent with our role as a trusted source of knowledge.

Our use of AI is designed to enhance, not replace, human knowledge and creativity. Your expertise, judgment, and scholarly rigor remain central to our success. AI simply provides powerful new tools to amplify the excellent work you already do in service to the public.

I encourage you to explore how these capabilities can enhance your work while following our new guidelines. To learn more about the new policy, approved AI tools, and upcoming training opportunities, visit the Office of Digital & Innovation’s AI Prism page and get started by:

• Visiting the Prism AI Policy page – Access the complete policy, handbook, and quick reference guide
• Reviewing essential guidelines – Familiarize yourself with approved tools and best practices
• Attending a training session – Institution-wide training begins July 14 and July 22, with materials archived on Prism for reference
• Participating in Office Hours – Ask questions at ODI’s Monthly Office Hours starting in August
• Consulting with ODI – ODI is actively working to connect with staff and unit leadership to be available for specialized guidance – reach out to them at ai@si.edu
• Using approved tools  – AI platforms are available immediately in line with the usage agreements in our policy

We stand at an exciting moment in our institution’s history. The work we undertake with these new tools will shape both our future and our contributions to how knowledge is shared globally. Together, we will demonstrate how great institutions can embrace innovation while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and public service.

Thank you for all you do to carry our mission forward.

Don’t miss the next session of AI Policy Orientation and Training from the Office of Digital and Innovation:

• Monday, July 14 at 10:00 a.m. ET
• Tuesday, July 22 at 9:00 a.m. ET