The UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT) invested in artificial intelligence training for employees before introducing its own AI-powered workplace assistant, a strategy that officials say has already improved efficiency and could offer lessons for businesses adopting the technology.
Figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request show the department funded a range of specialist AI training programmes between 2023 and 2026. Staff completed courses covering data science, AI governance, generative AI and related subjects, including AI Law, Policing and Governance and AI Fundamentals.
The training was delivered through universities and online learning platforms such as Pluralsight and O’Reilly, with a focus on strengthening digital and data skills across the department.
Following that investment, DBT launched “Ask DBT,” an internal AI tool designed to help employees quickly find information stored across the department’s extensive intranet. Staff can ask questions in plain English and receive responses based solely on verified internal content.
According to trial results, more than 30% of participants used the system during testing. Around 61% of staff queries were answered immediately, reducing the need for colleagues to respond to routine questions covering areas such as IT support, travel guidance and expense claims.
The department’s approach comes as many organisations explore AI to improve productivity while addressing growing digital skills shortages. Research has found employees at UK companies spend significant time on repetitive administrative tasks, while many businesses continue to report shortages of expertise in artificial intelligence, data management and cybersecurity.
Stuart Harvey, chief executive of data management company Datactics, said the department’s strategy demonstrates the importance of preparing employees before introducing AI systems.
“The Department for Business and Trade’s investment in specialist AI skills alongside the rollout of Ask DBT shows other organisations what modern digital services need to succeed,” Harvey said.
He added that AI systems depend on the quality of the data supporting them, making governance and analytical capabilities essential for producing reliable results and improving both employee experience and service delivery.
Industry experts have frequently warned that organisations may fail to realise the full benefits of AI if they deploy new tools without first improving data quality and establishing clear governance practices.
The DBT initiative reflects a wider push across the UK government to expand the use of artificial intelligence. The government’s Humphrey suite of AI tools has reportedly reduced the time needed to analyse public consultation responses, processing around 50,000 submissions in approximately two hours. HM Revenue and Customs has also invested about £150 million in digital skills while establishing dedicated training academies for staff.
The launch of Ask DBT follows broader digital transformation efforts within the department, including recent upgrades to the Trade Remedies Authority’s online platform aimed at making it easier for UK businesses to participate in trade remedy investigations.
The department’s experience suggests that building digital skills and strengthening data management before introducing AI technology may help organisations achieve stronger results from their investments.
