Breaking down AI literacy: A starter guide

AI is part of our new normal. It’s integrated in the way how we work, make decisions, and run a business. From automating everyday tasks to generating insights at scale, AI is helping us move faster and smarter. But as with any powerful tool, its value depends on how we use it.

Think back to the early days of the Internet. It brought incredible opportunities but also confusion, misinformation, and entirely new risks. Those who knew how to work with it safely gained an edge; those who didn’t paid the price. We’re at a similar crossroads now with AI.

When used effectively, AI can reduce errors, surface valuable insights, and accelerate workflows. Used carelessly, it can lead to costly missteps, like misinformed decisions, compliance failures, and even reputational damage. And many of those risks don’t come from the technology itself but from people using AI irresponsibly.

The reality is that your organisation might already be using AI in ways leadership isn’t fully aware of. And without a shared understanding of what AI is, how it works, and where the boundaries lie, you’re flying blind.

In our guide, we break down what AI literacy really means – why it matters, what risks to watch for, and how to build a baseline of AI knowledge across your teams. Because understanding AI isn’t just a tech skill anymore, it’s our common responsibility.