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Consolidated Responsible AI policy

This policy sets out the approach to responsible AI deployment.

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1. Objectives

This policy sets out the approach to responsible AI deployment across Stack Exchange, Inc. (“Stack”).

The objectives of this policy are to ensure that:

  • Ethical considerations are an integral part of AI development across Stack, as this is essential to preserve quality and longevity in Stack’s AI services and products, as well as to maintain public trust.
  • AI technologies and AI systems add value for Stack’s users, customers, partners, and employees while using globally-benchmarked responsible AI standards set forth in applicable laws, ethical best practices, or voluntary frameworks implemented in relevant jurisdictions.

2. Accountability

Stack is responsible for implementing this policy and shall designate appropriate stakeholders with responsibility for AI governance within the relevant business. Stack is responsible for meeting AI objectives, providing guidance, and ensuring responsible AI use and deployment.

3. Responsible AI guiding principles

We understand that achieving ethical and responsible AI is an ongoing journey. Therefore, we are committed to continuously strengthening our capabilities in this area by adhering to the following principles.

  • Fairness and Non-Discrimination. We ensure AI systems are designed and trained to be fair and unbiased. This involves actively identifying and mitigating bias in data and algorithms while promoting equality in outcomes across Stack’s products and services.
  • Transparency and Explainability. We believe AI systems should be transparent about how they operate and the decisions they make. This includes providing clear explanations for AI-generated outcomes, allowing stakeholders to understand the reasoning behind AI decisions.
  • Human-Centered Design. We prioritize the needs, values, and well-being of individuals in the development and deployment of AI systems. This involves engaging with Stack users, customers, and other stakeholders to confirm that AI technologies enhance human capabilities, foster collaboration, and support positive human experiences.
  • Accountability and Governance. We establish clear accountability for AI systems and their impacts. This includes defining roles and responsibilities for oversight at Stack, ensuring regulatory compliance, and implementing mechanisms for redress in case of harm or unintended consequences.
  • Privacy and Security. We protect personal data by implementing robust security measures and privacy protocols to validate that AI systems comply with applicable privacy regulations, meet security standards, and respect privacy.

4. AI governance operating framework

Our responsible AI operating framework aims to ensure that ethical dimensions of AI are integrally included within Stack’s product development process. These are organized around the following key focus areas.

Governance

We are establishing a clear framework for decision-making, accountability, and oversight in the management of AI systems, ensuring alignment with organizational values and ethical standards. Stack shall comply with applicable global AI regulations, including the European Union Artificial Intelligence Act. We will continue to educate and train our workforce to increase AI literacy and improve outcomes.

Risk Management

We will identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with AI technologies throughout their lifecycle to ensure safety, fairness, and compliance with relevant laws. Risk assessments will be carried out where necessary to reduce the likelihood of unintended consequences. Stack will prioritize the design of privacy, security, transparency, bias controls, and robustness as essential components in the development and deployment of AI systems and models.

Continuous Improvement

We will monitor and evaluate the performance of AI systems and AI technologies to enhance their effectiveness, address issues, and adapt to changing needs. Stack will foster innovation while placing responsible use at the forefront.

5. Ongoing monitoring

The Stack Legal Team ensures that our business understands and complies with applicable law and industry best practices in their responsible AI implementations, legal compliance efforts, regulatory engagements, and AI risk assessments. The Stack Leadership Team reviews this Responsible AI Policy and its implementation on an annual basis, as part of its oversight and governance responsibilities.

Users, customers, or other Slack stakeholders with questions about this Policy can contact Stack Legal for more information at legal@stackoverflow.com.