AI Best Practices are being added to our Code of Ethics
The RGD, DesCan and SDGQ have updated our joint Code of Ethics taking into consideration the use of AI in our industry.
A unified document with DesCan and SDGQ, the Code of Ethics provides a framework of rules that Members must follow along with recommended best practices. Existing sections in the Code address working with clients, responsibilities to society and the environment, competition and fees, intellectual property and more.
The AI-related updates offer guidance to designers on the ethical incorporation of Generative AI into their work. These changes reflect AI's growing impact on the industry and the need to address concerns about transparency, data ethics and fair compensation for creators.
“Every year, when we review our Code of Ethics, we start by thinking about the most pressing ethical concerns of our Members. This year, there was no surprise that the use of AI in our workplaces and our processes was top of mind. This year's updates are an effort to provide clarity and support when designers are—or are being asked—to incorporate AI tools into their practice. We've purposefully kept the rules and best practices broad to try to ensure they remain relevant as this field continues to evolve. This is just the beginning. We have plans to further assist our community with more documentation and an AI policy coming soon.”
Nicola Hamilton RGD
Some key modifications include:
- Responsibilities to Clients & Employers: Designers should disclose when and how they incorporate AI into their practice, ensuring that clients and collaborators are informed. A policy that clearly outlines how a designer uses Generative AI and other assistive technologies in their work is recommended.
- Responsibilities Related to Intellectual Property: Designers must ensure that clients understand the Intellectual Property and Associated Rights accorded to the work created on their behalf. This includes clarifying the rights and responsibilities associated with work that integrates Generative AI.
- Responsibilities Related to the Intellectual Property of Others: Members must not knowingly use Generative AI tools that do not fairly compensate creators and/or owners of the training data used to develop them.
- Responsibilities of Educators: Design educators must ensure that students understand Intellectual Property and Associated Rights as they relate to their work and any copyrighted material they may use. This includes the ethical considerations surrounding Generative AI.
Approved by the RGD’s Board of Directors, the new section will be presented at the Annual General Meeting in April 2025 for ratification.
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