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Q: Are there any UAB approved technology systems for generative AI? 
A: UAB has approved AI tools for official use within UAB operations and is actively reviewing potential new tools. If UAB users are interested in acquiring new AI tools or new AI features within existing tools, they should work with their department leadership to submit a request through UAB IT.

Q: What if the AI tool I wish to use is not something that is purchased, such as the free version of ChatGPT or Gemini?
A: UAB has approved use of Microsoft Copilot with Data Protection, which is built on Open AI technology but offers data protection for UAB users. Even free software requires advance review and consideration. First, individual users do not have signature authority to bind the institution to the terms and conditions that must be accepted prior to use or download. Secondly, UAB users must not disclose UAB Sensitive or Restricted/PHI information to a third party without an agreement protecting this information. For use of AI tools or systems for official UAB purposes, even if they are free of charge, please submit a request through UAB IT.

Q: If I am using AI for personal reasons outside of my UAB role, does this mean that we should not use UAB equipment either (e.g., UAB-issued laptops/devices)?
A: Generally speaking, UAB devices are used for UAB purposes. See the UAB Acceptable Use of Computer and Network Resources Policy.  While incidental personal use is anticipated and acceptable, this use should never limit or interfere with the UAB business use of resources.

Q: For the work that I do on behalf of UAB, one major possible use case for AI is in assisting with summarizing lines of text. How do I know if I can use AI for this purpose?
A: Microsoft Copilot with Data Protection can be used for this task, but keep in mind that you should be aware of the classification of data you provide within the AI tool. UAB’s data classification standard defines public, sensitive, and PHI/restricted data based on the attributes of the data. If you are uncertain as to what classification your data set is appropriately assigned, check with the data owner. Remember that once you have provided that data within public AI tools, it is a disclosure of that data, so must be done in a manner consistent with UAB policy, federal regulations, and contractual obligations.

Q: How can employees explore AI tools consistent with the UAB AI principles?
A: Use approved AI tools. If you wish to acquire and use another tool, you must first submit a request through UAB IT.

Q: Can I use images generated by AI for use at UAB? 
A: You can use AI-generated images for ideation, but look for more guidance in the future on use in public-facing spaces such as UAB-affiliated web sites and social media accounts.

Q: What does my AI technology request need to look like?
A: UAB IT outlines these criteria used in evaluating requests. Additionally, there are specific questions related to AI that allow reviewers to evaluate consistency with the principles that UAB has committed to adhere to in its use of AI. 

Q: How do I request approval for using a new AI feature in existing software, such as Microsoft Co-Pilot?
A: Requests for AI features in software already approved, available, and deployed by UAB must still begin with the submission process so that the feature can be evaluated in relationship to the principles outlined.

Q: How do I get started with Microsoft's Open AI Service?
A: Submit a request in the IT Service Portal to get started. Please note in the description if you would like to use the “Text and code models” and/or “DALL-E2 models (text to image).” It can take up to 21 days to be approved. 

 
Q: I have an Azure subscription. When can I get access to the GPT-4 model?
A: The GPT4 model has a separate application process that will begin after your initial request for the Open AI Service is processed by Microsoft. UAB IT will attempt to escalate all requests for access with Microsoft on your behalf.

Q: When can I use Copilot for Microsoft 365?
A: Microsoft 365 Copilot, an AI assistant powered by your ideas and information, is now available for UAB campus faculty and staff for an annual fee. You can request Microsoft 365 Copilot in the IT Service Portal.

Q: Can I use OpenAI's ChatGPT for development?
A: UAB does not currently have a contract in place with OpenAI, the company. Our current preferred method for access to ChatGPT-like API services is through our partnership with Microsoft. This is an ever-changing field, and we are constantly evaluating the safe and secure options to campus.

Q: How can I request a letter of support from Microsoft for my grant submission for the Open AI Service?
A: Please submit your request to AskIT to be routed to the Cloud Services support team.

Q: Can I use Github and Github CoPilot for my class?
A: UAB IT is actively evaluating Github to offer it as a core service to campus by fall 2024.  Github CoPilot is not currently in scope for this initial rollout. UAB IT will continue to provide updates through the eReporter, Greenmail, and other appropriate campus communication channels as this new service is made available.

Q: Can I use AWS’s Amazon Bedrock service and the Titan Foundational Models (FMs)?
A: UAB is currently in a pilot implementation phase with AWS. The use of AWS is limited in scope currently to those with grant requirements and to the use cases that cannot be supported within Azure. Submit a request in the IT Service Portal to get started.

Q: Can I use Google’s Vertex AI service and their MedPalm service?
A: UAB is currently in a pilot implementation phase with Google. The use of Google is limited in scope currently to those with grant requirements and to the use cases that cannot be supported within Azure. Submit a request in the IT Service Portal to get started.

Q: Can I use models offered by Google, Facebook, or other third-party Large Language Model (LLM) providers?
A: UAB does not currently have contracts in place with other vendors outside of Azure and AWS.  If you would like to propose a new addition to be support by UAB IT, please submit a Request for New Service/Contract in the UAB IT Service Catalog.