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Previous: Glossary

Table of Contents

Next: The Role of Stakeholder Engagement in AI

Overview

The purpose of this section is to be transparent about the understanding of “stakeholder engagement” shared by members of the Task Force so users of this resource can determine for themselves whether this is the particular approach to engagement they want to adopt.

As noted, “stakeholder engagement” is an expansive term that is used to encompass a diverse array of practices and approaches. The intention of the Task Force is to orient the field (AI development) towards the promotion of more equitably distributed benefits from technological innovation through the involvement of socially marginalized communities and a broader diversity of individuals in decision-making around technology development. Because of this specific orientation, it is important for the Task Force to outline the assumptions underlying “stakeholder engagement” in the guidance provided.

Operating Assumptions

• Stakeholder participation is not intrinsically ‘good’ and does not automatically result in the inclusion of marginalized stakeholders.
• Stakeholder engagement won’t inherently rectify harmful products and systems.
• Some forms of stakeholder engagement may not be implementable for all types of organizations, or for all types of communities.
• Stakeholder groups and communities should not be treated as monoliths.
• Stakeholder groups, especially socially marginalized community members, can experience participation fatigue.
• Trust is not a guaranteed prerequisite or outcome of stakeholder engagement.
• Choosing the stakeholder engagement method(s) that best support engaged communities is key.
• Conducting effective stakeholder engagement requires training and expertise.