Dear Colleagues,
Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how research is conducted, communicated, and applied in public policy and management. To better understand how our community is engaging with these emerging technologies, APPAM recently surveyed members about their use of AI tools, perspectives on opportunities and challenges, and areas where additional support may be needed.
The results show what we already assumed: AI has become a regular part of many members' professional workflows. More than 80 percent of respondents reported using general-purpose AI tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, or Copilot for research or policy analysis in the past year, making these tools the most widely used AI applications among our members. Nearly two-thirds of respondents use AI at least weekly, with one-third using these tools daily or almost daily.
At the same time, our members expressed caution about AI's role in policy research. Concerns about accuracy and reliability emerged as the most significant barrier to broader adoption, followed by data privacy and security considerations, as well as ethical and equity-related concerns. These findings highlight both the promise of AI and the importance of ensuring that its use remains rigorous, transparent, and aligned with the values of our field.
The survey also revealed an opportunity for institutions and professional associations, such as APPAM, to provide greater guidance. While many respondents reported that their organizations provide access to AI tools, relatively few indicated familiarity with formal institutional policies governing AI use. Members expressed a strong interest in practical support, including best-practice guidelines, training opportunities, and hands-on workshops focused on responsible and effective AI use in policy research.
Taken together, these findings suggest that AI is no longer a future consideration for our field; it is a present reality. As researchers, analysts, educators, practitioners, and students, we have an important role to play in shaping how these technologies are used to advance evidence-based policymaking while maintaining the highest standards of quality, ethics, and public trust.
APPAM is committed to supporting our community as this landscape continues to evolve. The insights shared through this survey will help APPAM consider next steps, which could include:
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Developing APPAM AI Best Practices Guidelines
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Hosting an AI Learning Series
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Integrating AI Programming into Conferences
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Creating AI Disclosure Standards for Research
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Developing Resources for Students and Early-Career Researchers
Thank you to everyone who participated in the survey and contributed their perspectives. Your engagement helps ensure that APPAM remains responsive to our members' needs and is prepared to navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead. Please reach out to us at [email protected] if you have specific suggestions on next steps for APPAM in this endeavor.
Best,
Kosali Simon, APPAM President
