7 ways to get the most out of AI
It's a useful tool, one that’s increasingly cropping up in workplaces across defence, but you need to know how to use it properly.
This advice from Jackie Collins – social media guru at the BFBS Academy – outlines the basic dos and don’ts of working with artificial intelligence, whether you are still serving or looking to make the move to civvy street.
1 Give clear orders
AI responds best when you’re specific. Vague instructions produce vague results. Think like you’re briefing for an operation: what’s your end state? What exactly do you need? The clearer your orders, the better
the output.
2 Don’t treat it as if it’s the CO
AI can generate ideas and draft work, but it makes mistakes. Always apply your own experience and judgement. Use it as your thinking partner to save time, not to replace your brain.
3 Know its limitations
AI can’t access real-time information and struggles with specialist or niche topics. Don’t expect it to know your unit’s latest procedures or what’s happening on the ground right now.
4 How you phrase your request matters
Ask for step-by-step breakdowns, specify what format you need, give examples. Small changes in how you communicate can dramatically improve results. Keep experimenting.
5 Use it to eliminate admin
AI is brilliant at the repetitive graft: drafting emails, organising paperwork, sorting research. Let it sweat the small stuff so you can focus on the decisions that need a human brain.
6 Keep operational security tight
Don’t feed sensitive information into public AI platforms. Understand the data privacy implications. Stay switched on to potential bias in outputs. Responsible use keeps you and your mates protected.
7 Stay ahead of the curve
Technology moves quickly. Even small amounts of time spent learning new tools will pay off. Digital capability matters now, whether you’re in or out of uniform.
