Don’t Fall Victim to “AI Washing” in Legal Tech

“AI washing” refers to the practice where companies exaggerate or misrepresent the AI capabilities of their products to capitalize on the current hype surrounding artificial intelligence. According to a blog post by Evisort, this term has become particularly relevant in the tech industry, including the legal tech sector.

Overstated AI capabilities can lead to multiple problems, such as inadequate insights, biased decision-making, poor reporting, data security issues, increased costs and labor, and ultimately wasted investment.

To avoid falling victim to AI washing, potential Legal Ops adopters should:

1. Evaluate vendor talent: Ensure that vendors have experienced AI professionals. Review their LinkedIn profiles for relevant expertise in algorithm development, machine learning, natural language processing, and data engineering.
2. Ask critical questions: Inquire whether the vendor has built a proprietary AI and large language model specifically for contracts, involved humans in the review process, and has the ability to test AI capabilities at scale.
3. Review responsible AI policies: Verify that vendors have policies emphasizing transparency, explainability, elimination of bias, and data governance.
4. Be cautious of newcomers: Exercise caution with startups that may not have fully developed AI infrastructures or adequate support resources.
5. Demand proof of concept: Request demonstrations and independent reviews to ensure that AI functionalities are as advanced as claimed.

Conducting thorough due diligence is crucial for Legal Ops to ensure they invest in AI solutions that genuinely meet their needs and avoid the pitfalls of AI washing. By taking these steps, organizations can better navigate the complex landscape of AI-powered legal tech and make informed decisions that benefit their operations.