Empower Your Nonprofit E-Book

Amy Neumann

• Herausgeber: John Wiley & Sons
• Kategorie: Fachliteratur
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 277

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Beschreibung

Your complete guide to AI in the nonprofit sector

Empower Your Nonprofit: Simple Ways to Co-Create with AI for Profound Impact is a comprehensive, accessible, and highly practical guide to harnessing the power of emerging AI technologies in the nonprofit sector. This book delivers strategic research, tools, case studies, and advice to help nonprofits advance their missions through AI, with interviews, outlooks, testimonials, and quotes from nonprofit leaders and influencers in the AI industry delivering key insight to all readers regardless of technical expertise.

Readers will learn how to practically resolve the top 10 most common nonprofit pain points through the utilization of AI, backed by current case studies of AI implementation for core nonprofit functions like fundraising, grants, marketing, and initiative event optimization. In this book, readers will find information on:

• The nonprofit sector's critical missions, success factors, challenges, and needs of today
• AI as a way to automate inefficient internal processes, freeing talent to work on more inspired projects
• Tools, tips, and tricks to get started with AI as soon as today

Empower Your Nonprofit: Simple Ways to Co-Create with AI for Profound Impact earns a well-deserved spot on the bookshelves of all nonprofit leaders and involved donors seeking a comprehensive step-by-step guidebook on how this exciting new technology can be leveraged for greater nonprofit success.

Leseprobe

Table of Contents

Cover

Table of Contents

Title Page

Copyright

Dedication

Introduction

The Hummingbird Effect: How AI Can Empower Your Nonprofits

CHAPTER 1: A Brief Overview of Artificial Intelligence

A Brief History of AI

Understanding AI and Harnessing the Power

Importance of AI in the Nonprofit Sector

Keeping Perspective

Note

CHAPTER 2: AI for Nonprofits

Nonprofits’ Missions and Critical Success Factors

Critical Needs of Nonprofits Today and How AI Can Help

Revolutionizing Altruism

Notes

CHAPTER 3: World-Changing Emergence of AI and How It Impacts Nonprofits

Global Impact Needs Outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

AI Impact, Concerns, and Opportunities

Job Security Concerns and the Potential for Augmentation

Administrative Efficiency Unlocked

Strategic AI Integration and Robust Data Management

Empowering Fundraising Efforts and Diversifying Funding Sources

Innovative Leadership: Embracing AI as a Catalyst for Change and Alleviating Staff Burnout through Intelligent Automation

Donor Behavior Analysis: Adapting to Evolving Preferences

Fostering Collaboration for Collective Impact

Optimizing Communications

Agility in Adapting to Challenges

Optimizing Human Resources and Volunteer Management

Investing in Training and Continuous Learning

Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

The Current State of AI Usage in the Nonprofit Sector

Potential Impact on Populations Served by Nonprofits

Benefits of AI and How Generative AI Can Accelerate the Critical Needs Solutions for Nonprofits Today

Notes

CHAPTER 4: Interviews, Outlooks, Testimonials, Quotes

AI as a Productivity Powerhouse

Data-Driven Insights for Impact

Revolutionizing Fundraising and Grant Development

Addressing Bias and Ethical Concerns

Transparency and Building Trust

A Call to Action: Embracing the AI Future

Summary

CHAPTER 5: Case Studies:

Current Case Studies of AI Implementation for Core Nonprofit Functions Like Fundraising, Grants, Marketing, and Initiative Event Optimization

Empowering Your Nonprofit with AI: Real-World Case Studies

Case Study Examples

Case Study – Programs and Initiative Planning

Case Study – Funding Campaigns

Case Study – Grant Development

Case Study – Nonprofit Marketing and Communications

Case Study – Collaborative AI Development

Case Study – Community-Driven AI Innovation

Ways AI Case Studies Suggest Benefits to Nonprofits

Notes

CHAPTER 6: Bias in AI:

Strategies to Mitigate Bias and Ensure Responsible and Ethical AI Development for the Nonprofit

Current State of Bias in AI

Advanced Bias Detection and Mitigation

AI Ethics Governance Models

Responsible AI Development and Deployment

Privacy and Security Concerns

Notes

CHAPTER 7: Nonprofits Getting Started Using AI Systems and Partnerships

Big Plans for AI – Now Is the Time

Generative AI Development Plans

Generative AI Adoption Plans in the Next 12 Months

Where to Begin

New AI Partnership Opportunities

Building Your Own AI Applications for Profits

Accelerating Current Programs with AI Tools and Systems for Greater Impact

Strategies for Scalable, Sustainable AI Implementation

Finding and Preparing the Right People, Staff, and Volunteers to Co-create with AI

Notes

CHAPTER 8: Proposed Use Cases: AI For High-Impact Nonprofit Initiatives

AI in Administrative Tasks and Enhancing Organizational Efficiency

Funding – AI in Fundraising, Grant Writing, and Reporting

AI for Ethical Considerations, DEI, and Responsible AI Implementation

Blockchain and AI in Transparent Giving

Utilizing AI to Measure ROI

Use AI to Improve Impact to Cause or Community Served

Using AI for Security, Privacy, and Cybersecurity

Staff Recruitment and Retention – Volunteer Management

Notes

CHAPTER 9: AI Use Cases in Marketing, Communications, Engagement, and Events

AI in Nonprofit Branding and Marketing Campaigns

Social Media and Communication Automation

Stakeholders – Personalization, Targeting Donors, Supporters, Partnerships, and Collaboration

Chatbots – Virtual Assistants for Nonprofit Engagement

AI in Event Initiatives

Notes

CHAPTER 10: Conclusion

Reflection on Advanced AI in the Nonprofit Sector

Future Thought for AI and Nonprofits – Future Perspectives, Tips, and Inspiration for Social Impact

The Role of Nonprofits in Shaping AI Policy and Practice

Acknowledgments

About the Author

Appendix

AI Resources for Nonprofits

Index

End User License Agreement

Guide

Cover

Table of Contents

Title Page

Copyright

Dedication

Introduction

Begin Reading

Acknowledgments

About the Author

Appendix

Index

End User License Agreement

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AMY NEUMANN

EMPOWER YOUR NONPROFIT

SIMPLE WAYS TO CO-CREATE WITH AI FOR PROFOUND IMPACT

Copyright © 2025 by Wiley. All rights reserved, including rights for text and data mining and training of artificial intelligence technologies or similar technologies.

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ISBN: 9781394263240 (cloth)ISBN: 9781394263257 (ePub)ISBN: 9781394263264 (ePDF)

Cover Design: WileyCover Image: © devastudios/Adobe StockAuthor Photo: Courtesy of Amy Neumann

For Isabella Skye and other curious minds

Introduction

There is nothing more exciting than being inspired by a vision for making a difference in the world and imagining a way to actually change it for good. But nothing is more daunting than being in a nonprofit organization with that vision and not having all the tools and systems to allow you to achieve that dream.

This book aims to empower nonprofits with simple ways to co-create with artificial intelligence (AI) to make a profound impact. There is a wealth of research, resources, and information about AI advancements, tools, and systems that can facilitate the actual achievement of tangible goals. You will learn how AI can assist in achieving those dreams to change the world better than any technology before AI.

The Hummingbird Effect: How AI Can Empower Your Nonprofits

Imagine a hummingbird, a tiny burst of emerald feathers. Despite its size, it can hover, dart, and dive at lightning speed. It sips nectar from the most delicate blooms, seemingly defying gravity with its energy. Through its hurried visits, this tiny yet ambitious creature plays a vital role in pollinating plants, ensuring the continuation of life in the ecosystem.

In the same way, AI can be a powerful tool for nonprofits. Though unseen, it can act with incredible speed and agility, flitting through vast amounts of data to identify patterns, predict trends, and optimize actions. Just as the hummingbird’s dazzling energy contributes to a thriving ecosystem, AI can empower nonprofits to achieve their missions with greater efficiency and impact.

Here’s how the hummingbird analogy connects to AI’s benefiting a nonprofit organization:

Tiny but Mighty:

AI, like the hummingbird, can be surprisingly powerful despite its seeming simplicity.

Agile and Adaptable:

AI can quickly analyze data and adjust strategies, mimicking the hummingbird’s ability to change direction instantly. Hummingbirds are incredibly fast and agile, able to change direction as needed. Similarly, nonprofits can use AI to be nimble and responsive, quickly pivoting strategies based on real-time data and insights to serve their mission better. In many cultures, hummingbirds symbolize resilience, endurance, and adaptability. By integrating AI, nonprofits demonstrate their commitment to continuously learning, evolving, and finding innovative ways to deliver on their mission in the face of challenges.

Source: Image created by AI Art Generator DALL-E-3

Reaches the Inaccessible:

AI can explore complex datasets, reaching insights that might be hidden to the human eye, like the hummingbird accessing nectar deep within flowers.

Performs Unique and Unimaginable Tasks:

Hummingbirds are the only birds that can fly backward. With AI, nonprofits can look back at historical data to gain new insights while also forecasting forward to anticipate trends and proactively adapt.

Creates a Ripple Effect:

AI, like the hummingbird pollinating plants, can profoundly impact the organization’s overall success by optimizing processes and identifying opportunities. Despite their small size, hummingbirds have a big impact as prolific pollinators. AI can help nonprofits “pollinate” their data, spreading insights and best practices to drive significant impact, even with limited resources.

Precision:

Hummingbirds are known for their precision and ability to target individual flowers. AI can help nonprofits precisely target their interventions, personalizing outreach and services for specific individuals or communities to drive more tailored and effective support.

Amplified Storytelling and Communications:

Hummingbirds are often seen as messengers of hope and joy. Nonprofits can leverage AI to amplify storytelling, spread inspiring messages of impact, and connect with supporters in powerful ways to spark hope and change.

Expanded Opportunities:

Just as hummingbirds are attracted to vibrant flowers, AI can help nonprofits uncover and be drawn to the most promising opportunities to drive colorful and meaningful change.

Like the hummingbird, this book is a testament to the power of seemingly small things to create a big impact. By co-creating with AI, your nonprofit can achieve its mission with greater efficiency and reach, leaving a lasting positive influence on the world. This book inspires you to realize that you can co-create with AI to facilitate your dreams and your nonprofit’s mission.

Technological advancements have always reshaped industries and shifted how we live and work, and now AI has emerged as a powerful force for change. The nonprofit sector, driven by a mission to create positive social impact, is not immune to this technological paradigm shift. As organizations increasingly recognize the potential of AI to revolutionize their operations and amplify their impact, it is crucial to develop a deep understanding of these technologies and their implications for the future of the nonprofit sector.

Empower Your Nonprofit: Simple Ways to Co-create with AI for Profound Impact is a comprehensive guide designed to help nonprofit leaders navigate the complex landscape of AI and harness its power to drive their organizations forward. This book results from extensive research and interviews with various experts, including nonprofit executives, technology professionals, and AI researchers.

By bringing together these unique perspectives, this book aims to provide a balanced and practical understanding of AI in the nonprofit context. Through key interviews conducted both in writing and virtual video conversations, invaluable insights have been gained into the real-world applications of AI in nonprofits. From optimizing fundraising efforts and improving service delivery to enhancing impact measurement and driving operational efficiency, the examples and use cases presented in this book showcase the massive potential of AI across various aspects of nonprofit work.

However, this book is not just about the technical aspects of AI. It has resulted from years of experience and hundreds of hours of research in the nonprofit and AI spaces. Interviews with high-level executives in this space allowed for a real-time study of the strategic, operational, and ethical considerations nonprofits must navigate as they embark on their AI journey.

This book explores best practices, common challenges, and key lessons learned from organizations at the forefront of this technological shift. It is intended to equip nonprofit leaders with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about AI implementation. It will provide insights about how to “co-create” alongside AI, augmenting human skills while leveraging everything uniquely human to create more innovation.

Whether you are a nonprofit executive seeking to explore AI’s potential for your organization, a technology professional looking to understand the unique challenges and opportunities of working with nonprofits, or simply someone passionate about the intersection of technology and social impact, this book has something to offer. By combining insights from nonprofit leaders and AI experts, we provide a comprehensive and accessible guide to AI in the social sector.

As you embark on this journey, it’s important to approach AI not as a daunting challenge or a magical solution but as a powerful tool that can help nonprofits achieve their missions more effectively and efficiently when used responsibly and strategically. With the right knowledge, mindset, and approach, AI has the potential to revolutionize the way nonprofits operate and drive profound impact in the communities they serve.

CHAPTER 1A Brief Overview of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the most potentially world-changing technological events to date. It can potentially revolutionize industries and reshape how we live and work.

As Devin Thorpe, CEO of The Super Crowd and author of Superpowers for Good, aptly puts it, “We have now arrived at the moment when avoiding the use of AI is like avoiding the use of the internet.”

A Brief History of AI

Year

AI event/development

Impact perspective0

1940s

Invention of electronic computers

The birth of modern computing, laying the foundation for future AI advancements.

1950

Claude Shannon’s “Theseus” mouse

Early example of AI, where a mechanical mouse navigated a maze.

1956

Dartmouth Workshop

AI is officially born; the term “Artificial Intelligence” is coined.

1970s–1980s

Development of expert systems

Programs that mimicked the decision-making abilities of human experts, like early medical diagnosis systems.

1997

IBM’s Deep Blue defeats chess champion Garry Kasparov

A computer beats a world chess champion, showcasing AI’s strategic thinking capabilities.

2000s

Rise of machine learning and neural networks

AI starts to learn from data, leading to more accurate predictions and classifications.

2001

Release of the movie

A.I. Artificial Intelligence

Hollywood brings AI to the big screen, increasing public interest and awareness.

2002

Introduction of Roomba, the autonomous vacuum cleaner

AI enters homes in the form of a smart cleaning device.

2011

IBM Watson wins

Jeopardy!

AI demonstrates understanding and processing of natural language on a popular quiz show.

2011

Launch of Apple’s Siri

AI-powered virtual assistants become mainstream with the introduction of Siri on iPhones.

2014

Amazon introduces Alexa

AI-powered voice assistant becomes a household name, controlling smart home devices and answering questions.

2014

Google’s DeepMind beats professional Go players

AI shows advanced strategic thinking in the complex game of Go.

2016

Release of Pokémon Go, utilizing AR (augmented reality)

AI and AR merge in a popular mobile game, blending the real world with virtual creatures.

2017

Google develops the Transformer architecture

Behind-the-scenes breakthrough in AI that leads to improved language understanding and generation.

2018

Introduction of deepfake technology

AI creates realistic but fake videos, raising awareness about digital manipulation.

2018

Google’s AI-powered Duplex makes a restaurant reservation over the phone

AI achieves a major milestone in natural-sounding conversational abilities.

2019

TikTok’s AI-driven recommendation system takes the world by storm

AI curates personalized video feeds, driving the app’s explosive popularity.

2020

AI aids in COVID-19 vaccine development

AI accelerates the research and development of vaccines, showcasing its potential in healthcare.

2021

Release of AI-generated music and artwork

AI starts to create original music and art, blurring the lines between human and machine creativity.

2021

Google announces LaMDA, a conversational AI

AI demonstrates more natural and engaging conversational abilities.

2022

Launch of ChatGPT

AI chatbot captivates the public with its ability to generate coherent and contextually relevant text.

2023

AI-integrated products like self-driving cars and smart home devices become more common

AI is seamlessly integrated into everyday life, making technology more intuitive and user-friendly.

Understanding AI and Harnessing the Power

Understanding and harnessing AI’s power is no longer optional for nonprofit organizations; it is essential for driving innovation, efficiency, and impact in an increasingly complex and competitive landscape.

At its core, AI refers to developing computer systems that can perform tasks requiring human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation. These systems are trained on vast amounts of data to recognize patterns, learn from experience, and make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed for every possible scenario.

AI encompasses various subfields and approaches, each with its techniques and applications. Machine learning, for example, enables systems to learn and improve their performance on a specific task over time without being explicitly programmed. Deep learning, a subset of machine learning based on artificial neural networks, allows AI to learn from unstructured data like text, images, and audio, opening new possibilities for analysis and insights.

Natural language processing (NLP) is another key area of AI that enables machines to understand, interpret, and generate human language. This technology powers applications like chatbots, sentiment analysis, and language translation, which can help nonprofits improve communication, engagement, and service delivery. Computer vision, meanwhile, allows AI to identify and process images and videos in ways that mimic human perception, with applications ranging from object recognition to facial analysis.

The potential applications of AI in the nonprofit sector are vast and varied. From optimizing fundraising efforts and improving donor engagement to streamlining operations and enhancing program delivery, AI can help nonprofits work smarter, faster, and more effectively. By automating routine tasks, analyzing complex datasets, and generating new insights, AI can free up human resources to focus on higher-level strategic priorities and mission-critical activities.

However, as with any powerful technology, AI presents challenges and risks that nonprofits must navigate carefully. Ensuring the ethical and responsible development and deployment of AI systems is critical, particularly when working with sensitive data or vulnerable populations. Issues like algorithmic bias, data privacy, and transparency must be addressed proactively to maintain trust and accountability.

Moreover, successful AI adoption requires more than just technical implementation; it also demands a cultural shift within organizations and new skills and mindsets among staff and stakeholders. Nonprofits must be willing to experiment, learn, and adapt as they integrate AI into their operations while focusing on their core missions and values.

Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of AI for nonprofits are too significant to ignore. As AI technology advances and becomes more accessible, organizations that embrace AI strategically and responsibly will be better positioned to drive impact, scale their efforts, and achieve their missions. The future of the nonprofit sector will be shaped by those who can effectively harness the power of AI to augment and enhance human capabilities while always keeping the well-being of the communities they serve at the forefront.

Importance of AI in the Nonprofit Sector

“Generative AI has the potential to change the world in ways that we can’t even imagine. It has the power to create new ideas, products, and services that will make our lives easier, more productive, and more creative. It also has the potential to solve some of the world’s biggest problems, such as climate change, poverty, and disease.”1

– Bill Gates, Microsoft Co-founder and Co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

The nonprofit sector is vital in addressing various social, environmental, and economic challenges. However, nonprofits often face resource constraints and increasing demands for their services. AI can revolutionize how nonprofits operate, enabling them to optimize their resources, enhance decision-making processes, and amplify their impact.

AI can help nonprofits increase efficiency and reduce costs by automating routine tasks, analyzing vast amounts of data, and personalizing communication with stakeholders. These capabilities allow organizations to focus their limited resources on mission-critical activities. AI can also improve fundraising efforts and donor engagement by analyzing donor data to predict giving patterns and optimize fundraising strategies. Additionally, AI-powered tools can help nonprofits personalize services and support for beneficiaries, ensuring that individuals receive the most relevant and impactful assistance.

Measuring and demonstrating impact is a crucial aspect of nonprofit work, and AI can play a significant role in this area. By analyzing data from various sources, AI can help organizations better understand their programs’ effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. Furthermore, AI can assist nonprofits in identifying new opportunities for innovation and collaboration, fostering partnerships that can lead to greater impact.

As Julie A. Maurer, PhD, lead research manager at the Ohio Education Research Center at The Ohio State University, emphasizes:

The nonprofit sector is evolving quickly, and choosing not to adopt AI solutions will increasingly disadvantage your organization in ways that may not be immediately obvious. The benefits of adopting new technologies are far-reaching and span your entire organization – from strategic planning to customer service, fundraising, and all other areas of the operation.

Maurer also highlights the importance of taking advantage of resources available to offset the costs involved, such as J.P. Morgan’s Force for Good program, TechSoup’s nonprofit marketplace, and Resourceful Nonprofit (the author’s nonprofit).

It is important to note that while AI offers numerous benefits, its adoption requires careful planning, strategy, governance, and continuous human oversight. Nonprofits must proactively address concerns around ethical AI development, data privacy, and potential misuse. When implemented responsibly, AI provides an incredible opportunity for social impact organizations to extend their reach and augment their workforce while catalyzing their ability to understand and solve complex challenges.

It is becoming increasingly vital for nonprofit leaders to understand and leverage AI to stay competitive, adapt to changing circumstances, and maximize community impact.

RESPONSIBLE AND ETHICAL USE OF AI

Ensuring responsible and ethical use of AI is critical for nonprofits as they integrate these technologies into their operations. The following are several strategies nonprofits can employ and learn more about throughout this book.

Develop an AI Ethics Framework: Create ethical principles and guidelines that align with the nonprofit’s mission and involve diverse stakeholders in their development.

Prioritize Transparency and Explainability: Ensure AI systems are transparent, provide clear explanations, and use interpretable models while being open with beneficiaries about AI use.

Address Bias and Fairness: Regularly assess for biases, use diverse datasets, and implement fairness audits to ensure equitable treatment by AI systems.

Ensure Data Privacy and Security: Implement strong data governance, adhere to data protection regulations, and use secure protocols to protect sensitive data.

Foster Human Oversight and Accountability: Ensure human oversight in AI decisions, establish clear responsibilities, and provide staff training for effective AI management.

Engage in Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation: Continuously monitor AI systems, conduct regular audits, and be ready to adjust or decommission systems if they cause harm or fail ethical standards.

Foster Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: Collaborate with other nonprofits and experts, participate in industry initiatives, and contribute to AI ethics discourse to enhance decision-making and share best practices.

ENHANCED DECISION-MAKING

AI can enhance decision-making in the nonprofit sector in several ways:

Predictive Analytics for Resource Allocation: AI algorithms can analyze historical data on program outcomes, beneficiary demographics, and funding sources to predict which initiatives will likely have the greatest impact. This information can help nonprofit leaders make data-driven decisions about where to allocate limited resources for maximum effect.

Sentiment Analysis for Strategic Planning: NLP techniques can analyze social media posts, news articles, and other public data sources to gauge public opinion on issues relevant to a nonprofit’s mission. These insights can inform strategic planning decisions, such as which programs to prioritize or how to frame messaging for maximum resonance with target audiences.

Machine Learning for Grant Proposal Evaluation: AI can be trained on historical data about successful grant proposals to identify patterns and characteristics associated with funding success. This knowledge can then be applied to evaluate and optimize new grant proposals, increasing the likelihood of securing funding.

Predictive Maintenance for Facilities Management: AI can analyze sensor data and maintenance records for nonprofits that own or operate physical facilities to predict when equipment is likely to fail. This enables proactive maintenance that minimizes downtime and reduces repair costs, helping nonprofit leaders make more informed decisions about facilities management and budgeting.

Intelligent Dashboards for Performance Monitoring: AI-powered dashboards can integrate and analyze data from multiple sources (such as program metrics, financial data, and stakeholder feedback) to provide nonprofit leaders with real-time, holistic views of organizational performance. These insights can support data-driven decision-making and help leaders identify areas for improvement or course correction.

Simulation Modeling for Scenario Planning: AI can create detailed simulation models of complex social systems, allowing nonprofit leaders to test the potential impacts of different intervention strategies or policy changes before implementing them. This “what-if” scenario planning can lead to more robust and effective decision-making.

Computer Vision for Needs Assessment: AI algorithms can analyze satellite imagery or drone footage to assess infrastructure damage after a disaster, identify areas of need in underserved communities, or track changes in land use patterns over time. These insights can help nonprofit leaders make more informed decisions about where and how to deploy resources for maximum impact.

By prioritizing these strategies, nonprofits can help ensure that their use of AI is aligned with their missions and values and that these powerful technologies are being used to benefit society. As the use of AI in the nonprofit sector continues to grow, organizations must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the ethical implications of these technologies.

Keeping Perspective

As you consider the integration of AI and its potential applications in the nonprofit sector, it is essential to consider and remember a few key perspectives that will help guide your journey and decision-making process.

THE CURRENT STAGE OF AI DEVELOPMENT

While AI has made remarkable strides in recent years, it is crucial to understand that, from an end-user perspective, the technology is still in its early stages. As with any nascent technology, AI is not infallible and may be subject to errors or misinformation. It is essential to approach AI critically and verify the accuracy of the outputs it generates. Maintain a healthy level of caution and skepticism, check facts, and always rely on human judgment to make final decisions.

Use a pragmatic approach to adapting the AI tools and systems essential to your needs. It is not usually necessary to get bogged down in trying to understand all the nuances of every aspect of the best AI tools available because AI development is an ever-evolving scenario.

THE IMPORTANCE OF ASKING GREAT QUESTIONS (CORRECT PROMPTING)

The quality of the results you obtain from AI systems heavily depends on the quality of the input you provide. This is particularly true for generative AI (Gen AI) models (Gen AI bots), which rely on user prompts to guide their output. Learning how to prompt AI systems effectively is a skill that requires practice and experimentation. As you work with AI tools, take the time to refine your prompts and learn how to elicit the most accurate and relevant responses. Effective prompting is a critical component of successful AI implementation, and experimenting with what works for specific projects and needs is helpful as you learn.

Honing skills in this area is critical to getting the desired output because of the importance of asking the right questions and providing the right data to generative AI chatbots (referred to in this book as Gen AI bots or chatbots).

A few considerations to think about are:

Determine your desired output (a report, one-pager, presentation outline, grant draft, etc.).

Provide the Gen AI chatbot with important contextual information, including attaching resources and documents (while not publicly sharing proprietary or personal data about your organization, donors, etc.).

Provide further background, like who the audience for the output is (funders, beneficiaries, donors, volunteers, etc.), what type of voice you want to use (professional, casual, etc.), length, format, or other relevant initial items.

If the task you request is very long, detailed, or complex, it may be wise to run your prompts in a sequence, one at a time, waiting for confirmation of understanding or output from the Gen AI bot after each step before requesting the next step.

Often, many revisions of prompts – or using multiple Gen AI chatbots with different task strengths – can be helpful.

Many resources to learn prompt engineering exist from large tech companies, online course providers, and industry experts. And you can even ask various Gen AI bots to help you craft the perfect prompt for other bots (or themselves) to create exactly the output (achieve the goal) you want.

This can be particularly helpful when crafting visual elements, as the visual Gen AI image creation bots (DALL-E, Stable Diffusion, Midjourney, and similar) may respond best to prompts containing specific verbiage from the creative arts.

REAL-TIME RESEARCH APPROACH IN THIS BOOK