TLDR: Deloitte proposes a paradigm shift in how organizations view Artificial Intelligence, suggesting that treating AI systems as “employees” with inherent responsibilities, guidance, and trust is crucial for fostering safe, transparent, and human-centered innovation. This approach, detailed in an article by Annika Sponselee and Jan-Jan Lowijs, argues that existing regulations, complemented by the upcoming AI Act, should be seen as opportunities rather than hindrances to responsible AI development, emphasizing carefulness over speed.
In a forward-thinking analysis published on September 5, 2025, Deloitte, through the insights of authors Annika Sponselee and Jan-Jan Lowijs, has put forth a compelling argument for redefining the relationship between organizations and Artificial Intelligence. The core of their proposition is to treat AI systems not merely as anonymous tools, but as “employees” – entities that require responsibility, guidance, and trust to ensure innovation remains safe, transparent, and human-centered.
The article, titled “The AI staff: treating AI systems as employees,” challenges the common perception that regulations stifle innovation, particularly within the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Instead, Deloitte posits that regulations can act as a powerful catalyst, shaping innovation more thoughtfully and effectively. This perspective comes at a time when 44 CEOs have reportedly called for a two-year delay of the AI Act, citing fears of innovation suppression, a delay that now appears unlikely.
Deloitte argues that the true essence of AI compliance extends far beyond merely adhering to the AI Act. Organizations bear full responsibility for the actions of their AI systems, and an proactive approach that considers risks and impacts upfront is essential for accelerating safe and scalable innovation. The authors emphasize that fundamental rules, such as anti-discrimination laws, environmental legislation, and consumer protection, are already in place and apply equally to AI as to any other technology. The AI Act, they suggest, serves to complement these existing frameworks, adding crucial finishing touches.
“Whether the law comes into effect tomorrow or in two years, the responsibility is already there,” the authors state, underscoring the principle that taking responsibility upfront aligns with the European approach of “prevention is better than cure.” This is characterized not as slowness, but as carefulness, contrasting with a perceived US approach where speed often takes precedence, potentially leading to legal claims.
The concept of viewing AI as an employee implies a structured approach: training it, guiding it, and correcting it when necessary, much like a human staff member. This framework is not intended to impede innovation but to accelerate it by building trust and properly configuring systems to harness AI’s full potential. The article draws a parallel to human employees, noting that an organization remains largely responsible for its employees’ actions, even their mistakes, whether they result in incorrect offers, wrong advice, or discrimination. The same accountability, Deloitte asserts, should apply to AI systems.
Also Read:
- UK Strengthens AI Governance: Mandatory Oversight and Safety Institute at Forefront
- New Ethical Framework Illuminates Bias and Accountability Deficiencies in Current AI Systems
While AI is often seen as a threat to jobs, Deloitte highlights its opportunities, particularly in contributing to societal advancements, such as early breast cancer detection, reducing food waste, and combating loneliness. However, the firm cautions against the rush to deploy AI without adequate consideration of its impact, advocating for careful development that prioritizes risks for users and society. Many organizations, driven by competitive pressure, launch pilots too quickly, overlooking critical impact assessments. Deloitte’s solution is to embrace carefulness over speed, ensuring that AI is developed and deployed responsibly to truly benefit humanity.
