3 steps to explain your AI system to a non-technical person

One of the most effective ways to communicate complex AI technology to non-technical audiences is to simplify the language used in explanations. The goal is to avoid technical jargon that can confuse those without a background in technology. Instead, opt for clear, simple terms that translate the technical aspects of your AI into concepts that are easy for everyone to understand.

• Utilize everyday analogies - an effective strategy is to use analogies related to everyday experiences. For instance, you might compare a machine learning algorithm to a recipe - just as a recipe requires specific ingredients mixed in a certain way to create a dish, an algorithm needs data input in specific ways to produce results.
• Explain processes step-by-step - break down the AI’s decision-making process into small, digestible steps. Just like following directions on a map, explain how the AI starts from one point (input data) and moves through a series of decisions and calculations to reach an endpoint (the output).‍
• Use visual aids - visuals can be incredibly helpful in bridging the gap between complex AI processes and understanding. Diagrams that show the flow of data through an AI system can turn an abstract concept into something tangible and relatable.

To further clarify how an AI system works, it’s beneficial to anchor explanations in real-world applications that your audience can relate to. Demonstrating how the AI operates in familiar contexts not only makes the technology more accessible but also more relevant to your audience’s needs and interests.

• Illustrate with familiar scenarios - choose examples that mirror the daily experiences or challenges of your audience. For instance, if your AI helps in optimizing energy usage, explain it by showing how it resembles a thermostat that learns a household’s routine to save energy while maintaining comfort.
• Highlight impactful outcomes - discuss specific results and improvements that previous clients have experienced. This not only shows the practical value of your AI but also builds confidence by demonstrating proven success. For example, you could share how an AI-driven logistics system reduced delivery times and costs for a retail client, illustrating tangible benefits.‍
• Connect features to benefits - it’s important to connect the features of your AI system directly to the benefits they bring. Instead of detailing the technical specifications of a predictive maintenance tool, explain how it can predict equipment failures before they occur, preventing costly downtime and extending the lifespan of the machinery.

Creating comprehensive, easy-to-understand documentation and resources is essential for helping non-technical stakeholders grasp the nuances of an AI system. This approach ensures that they can learn at their own pace and refer back to information whenever necessary.

• Develop user guides and glossaries - offer detailed user guides that walk stakeholders through the features and functionalities of the AI system. Include a glossary of terms to help demystify technical language and acronyms that are commonly used in the AI field.
• Provide case studies and whitepapers - share case studies and whitepapers that detail the development and success of the AI system in various scenarios. These documents should focus on explaining the context, implementation, challenges, and outcomes in a way that is relatable and informative.‍
• Utilize FAQs - compile a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions that provide straightforward answers to common queries about the AI system. This resource can be continually updated based on ongoing feedback and new insights.

At the core of fostering a transparent relationship with your stakeholders is the ability to share, demonstrate, and communicate about your AI system efficiently. TrustAI Center is designed specifically to address these needs by providing a comprehensive platform where AI companies can manage, share, and clarify all aspects of their AI solutions.

• Streamline compliance processes - TrustAI Center acts as a central hub for all compliance-related materials. AI companies can store and manage all compliance documentation, certifications, and policies in one place, making it easier to maintain up-to-date records and respond to regulatory changes swiftly.
• Empower sales teams - with access to detailed resource libraries including data models and training datasets, sales teams can independently handle complex compliance queries and technical questions. This empowerment allows them to engage more confidently and effectively with prospects, reducing delays in the sales cycle.
• Accelerate deal closures - by boosting buyer confidence through transparent sharing of AI models (like Llama 2, GPT, etc.), training datasets, and clear documentation of AI capabilities, TrustAI Center helps close deals faster. Clients appreciate the straightforward access to this critical information, which enhances their understanding and trust in the AI solutions offered.
• Facilitate effective customer support - TrustAI Center also enables AI companies to transparently communicate and update any changes or improvements in their AI systems. This ongoing communication helps in preemptively addressing potential concerns, answering commonly asked questions, reducing support tickets, and improving overall customer satisfaction.

Ready to simplify compliance conversations? Get in touch.