Testing Framework aims to help AI system-owners and or developers .
Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and the PDPC are working with like-minded partners to develop a credible Minimum Viable Product (MVP) that will allow industry to achieve greater transparency around AI systems, and enable organisations to deploy AI systems in a trusted manner.
The MVP for AI Governance Testing Framework aims to help AI system-owners and/or developers test and verify the performance of their AI solutions through a mix of technical/statistical tests and process checks. It will translate AI ethical principles into tangible results, and is the practical next step for organisations.
According to the Minister of Communications and Information, Josephine Teo, the digital realm carries the promise of many opportunities. We can diagnose medical ailments with machine learning, boost productivity through autonomous vehicles, and reduce carbon emissions by optimising supply chain routes.
Many of these new possibilities are unlocked by AI. However, the digital world is not governed the same way the analogue world is. Data breaches, cyber hacks, and identity theft have become more commonplace. Many victims are caught by surprise – the safety of their analogue world did not prepare them for the dangers in cyberspace. Having fallen prey, it is hard to know who or what to trust.
“The erosion of trust over digital transactions is accompanied by growing distrust over how AI may be applied,” she said. “We should be concerned. A deficit of trust will eventually impede growth. More importantly, trust is a fundamental value worthy of being upheld.
We have seen useful responses to this challenge. New products designed to preserve trust principles of privacy, accountability, integrity, fairness, safety, and compliance. Use of technologies, such as blockchain, that enable the development of such products.”
Teo noted that in the digital space, as elsewhere, people all want to feel safe and no one wants to feel exploited, used, or manipulated, or that bad hats got off without being held to account. Precisely because of these broadening concerns, there is strong motivation to act.
“This is why Singapore will invest to build our capabilities in developing trust products and technologies,” she said. “We want to foster an environment where businesses and consumers feel safe and confident about using digital technologies. For example, we developed TradeTrust, a digital utility that uses blockchain to allow Governments and businesses to exchange digital trade documentation with confidence.”
