Japan introduces new HR guidelines for Generative AI

The Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry in Japan has unveiled a comprehensive set of guidelines aimed at harnessing the potential of Generative AI in human resources. These guidelines prioritise enhanced communication, a robust code of ethics, and the development of relevant skills to effectively counterbalance the pervasive influence of generative AI.

At its core, this initiative underscores the Ministry’s proactive approach to address the potential pitfalls associated with an over reliance on AI. The guidelines express a genuine concern regarding the excessive utilisation of AI, which has the potential to impede employees’ opportunities for experiential growth and professional development. To counter this, the guidelines strongly advocate for thorough and proper employee training programmes.

Emphasising effective communication skills as a cornerstone of these guidelines, the Ministry recognises the need for precision and clear instructions to solicit appropriate responses from AI, It emphasises the importance of refining communication abilities and verbalise commands in Japanese.

The Ministry asserts that the emergence of generative AI is a transformative force reshaping work dynamics, further underscoring the necessity to critically evaluate its every facet. With a forecast of an upsurge in roles demanding unique human creativity and personalised services, the guidelines anticipate an increasing premium on design skills tailored to customer needs, as well as an entrepreneurial spirit.

Conversely, the guidelines do caution against the potential downside of an AI-centric approach, highlighting the risk of curtailing employees’ experiential growth. As a countermeasure, the guidelines propose employee training and measures to ensure well-rounded development.

Further, the guidelines advocate the preservation of ethical standards and recommend that companies establish their own guidelines to navigate challenges associated with generative AI. The guidelines also address copyright concerns stemming from AI-generated content.

Given Japan’s comparative lag in the global adoption of generative AI, the Ministry’s guidelines seek to invigorate a proactive approach to AI integration. According to a survey by Boston Consulting Group Inc., generative AI has been embraced by 24 percent of Japanese companies, lagging behind the global average of 40 per cent.