FAQ

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.

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.

UAB IT outlines the 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.

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.

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.

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 it must be done in a manner consistent with UAB policy, federal regulations, and contractual obligations.

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 websites and social media accounts.

Use approved AI tools consistent with UAB AI principles. If you wish to acquire and use another tool, you must first submit a request through UAB IT.

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-E 2 models (text to image). It can take up to 21 days to be approved.

The GPT-4 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.

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.

UAB does not currently have a contract in place with OpenAI. 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 safe and secure options for campus.

Please submit your request to AskIT to be routed to the Cloud Services support team.

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, Blazer Weekly, and other appropriate campus communication channels as this new service is made available.

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 use cases that cannot be supported within Azure. Submit a request in the IT Service Portal to get started.

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 use cases that cannot be supported within Azure. Submit a request in the IT Service Portal to get started.

UAB does not currently have contracts in place with vendors outside of Azure and AWS. If you would like to propose a new addition to be supported by UAB IT, please submit a Request for New Service or Contract in the UAB IT Service Catalog.