In addition to the cool and rapidly deployable tech Natural Velcity gives you access too, we also help you source and use it in an ethical way. And when it comes to AI ethics, one size definitely doesn't fit all.
That’s where the concept of ethical AI tiers comes into play. Think of these tiers as a ladder, with each rung representing a higher level of trust and ethical integrity. Let’s break down the four tiers of ethical AI products and services we have developed at Natural Velocity, so you can get a clearer picture of what each level means.
1. Self-Attested
Starting at the bottom of the ladder, we have the Self-Attested tier. Now, don’t let "bottom" fool you—this level is crucial. AI producers and service providers in this category have taken the first step towards ethical responsibility by conducting a comprehensive self-assessment.
Essentially, the creators of these AI products and the associated service providers have given themselves a pat on the back for meeting the minimum ethical standards. It’s like doing a sanity check to make sure everything is in place. While it’s not the most rigorous assessment, it’s an important starting point for any AI product or service. At this stage, it's about laying down the foundation for ethical practices and making sure the basics are covered.
2. Verified Compliance
Climbing up a notch, we arrive at the Verified Compliance tier. Here’s where things start to get more serious. Products and services in this category have gone beyond just self-assessment—they’ve been evaluated by an external party. Think of it as having a trusted friend double-check your work to make sure you’re on the right track.
This external evaluation ensures that the AI product or AI service adheres to established ethical guidelines and isn't just paying lip service to the idea of ethics. Verified Compliance as ascertained by Natural Velocity means that someone outside the verified organisation has taken a closer look and given them their stamp of approval. It’s a step up from self-attestation, showing a commitment to doing things the right way.
3. Certified Integrity
Next up, we have Certified Integrity. This is where the big guns come in. Products in this tier have undergone formal certification from a recognised AI certification body. And this isn’t just a one-time check—these products are subjected to rigorous testing and ongoing monitoring to ensure they continue to meet high ethical standards. This is especially important for AI systems that learn and evolve over time.
Certified Integrity means that the product isn’t just good today; it’s designed to stay good in the long run. This level of certification tells users that the AI product is not only built with ethical integrity but is also committed to maintaining that integrity over time. It’s like having a gold star that you have to keep earning over and over.
4. Fully Trustworthy
And finally, we reach the top of the ladder—the Fully Trustworthy tier. Or as we like to call it, the "Fully Sick" (or should that be "Fully Healthy") level of ethical AI. Products and service providers that make it to this tier have attained a high level of trustworthiness. These AI products, services or service providers have been put through the wringer with comprehensive, independent audits that leave no stone unturned.
At this level, expect exceptional transparency, accountability and a deep dedication to ethical AI principles. Fully Trustworthy products aren’t just following the rules—they’re setting a benchmark for what ethical AI should look like. When you see a product in this tier, you know it’s the real deal, fully sick and fully trustworthy.
How Natural Velocity helps you achieve ethical AI
As AI continues to integrate more deeply into our lives, these tiers help us navigate the landscape of ethical AI. Whether you're just starting with Self-Attested products or aiming for the top with Fully Trustworthy ones, understanding these levels is key to building and maintaining trust in the technology we use every day.
So, next time you’re evaluating an AI product, take a look at which tier it falls into—it’ll give you a pretty good idea of how seriously they’re taking ethics.
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