Generative AI in Government: What to Expect in 2025

Gen AI is poised to fundamentally transform how government agencies operate, enabling new levels of efficiency and constituent-centric service delivery. Here are four key trends that will shape this evolution in the coming year:

1. Multimodal AI: unlocking new opportunities

One of the most exciting developments in gen AI is its ability to process and analyze information from multiple sources – text, images, video, and more. This "multimodal" capability will be a game-changer for public sector agencies in 2025. Imagine analyzing surveillance footage in conjunction with written reports to identify security threats more effectively, or using satellite imagery and sensor data to predict and respond to natural disasters. 

2. AI agents: automating tasks and optimizing workflows

AI agents, designed to compliment human capabilities and automate certain tasks, will become increasingly prevalent in 2025. These intelligent agents will equip the workforce with powerful tools to help streamline back-office processes, freeing up valuable human resources. On the front lines, AI-powered chatbots will provide constituents with 24/7 access to information and services, enhancing accessibility and responsiveness.

AI solutions are being tailored to the unique needs of federal agencies to accelerate the adoption of AI across government. As an example, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) faced challenges finding relevant information efficiently in the vast sea of patent data. Their solution? Develop an AI-powered search system.

Leveraging advanced AI provides examiners with more accurate and efficient search capabilities. This also demonstrates how government agencies can leverage AI to improve efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making, while maintaining the highest standards of public service.

3. Elevating the constituent experience

Today's constituents expect seamless, digital-first interactions with the government. Gen AI will be instrumental in meeting these expectations in 2025. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants will provide intuitive, conversational interfaces for accessing information and navigating complex processes.

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) provides a compelling example. Their gen AI chatbot allows users to easily search through millions of digitized records, offering a user-friendly alternative to traditional search methods. This is just one example of how gen AI can create more accessible and engaging experiences for constituents.

4. Strengthening security, building trust

The rise of AI brings new cybersecurity challenges. In 2025, we can expect more sophisticated AI-driven cyberattacks targeting government systems. However, AI is also a powerful tool in our defense arsenal. Advanced AI systems can detect anomalies, identify vulnerabilities, and automate incident response, enhancing our ability to protect critical infrastructure and data.

Building public trust in AI is crucial. Government agencies must be transparent about how they are using AI and actively address concerns about privacy and bias. A key way to get after this is to upskill the government workforce and foster responsible AI development. 

Conclusion: efficiency as a cornerstone of public service

2025 marks a pivotal year for gen AI in government. By embracing this technology responsibly and strategically, the public sector can unlock its transformative potential, driving efficiency gains across all facets of government operations. This will free up resources, allowing agencies to focus on what matters most: delivering essential services and effectively serving the needs of constituents.