Ready to dive into the exciting world of artificial intelligence (AI)? Pitt Digital is introducing Generative AI @ Pitt: a suite of user-tested, security-backed tools designed to propel the Pitt community into the AI age.
AI enables us to do more than ever before. From making your office life a breeze to having personalized research support in the lab, AI is more than just the latest tech trend — it's an absolute game-changer. Whether you’re a tech fanatic or more of a skeptic, it’s clear that now is the time to get a handle on the AI tools at our fingertips. Embrace it, explore it, and discover how it can transform the work you do every day.
Remember: It’s crucial that you protect private and restricted data when using AI — for yourself and your organization. Make sure that you know what data is protected, and always use University-approved versions of AI tools. Review Pitt IT’s AI acceptable use policy to learn more.
1. Being An Extra Set of Eyes
Have you ever sent out an important email, realized you made a mistake, and then had to send an embarrassing follow-up correcting yourself? Of course, AI can’t prevent these moments completely, but it can double-check your work to make sure you’re sending exactly what you think you are.
Here’s an example of how you can use AI to check yourself:
Could you review the following email and make sure it has a clear call to action? I want readers to know exactly what they need to do.
Pro Tip: A lot of the time, we talk about the ways AI can speed up workflows. In this case, AI can help you to slow down and take the time to review important details that you may have overlooked.
2. Analyzing Complex Data
Processing data can take a lot of brain power, and sometimes you could simply use a boost. When it feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day, it might be time to try AI. Whether you’re collating survey results or need a quick visual aid, AI has the power to review, process, and chart data in the blink of an eye.
Here’s how you can visualize your data with the help of AI:
Could you create a visualization of the survey results to help illustrate the key findings?
3. Making Sense of Important Details
Every day, we’re bombarded with so much information. It’s not unusual for key details to fall through the cracks. If you’re feeling like you’re missing something — or find yourself reading the same email over and over without getting the gist — ask AI to help extract action items or rephrase confusing instructions.
Here’s one way you can ask AI to help you figure out the details:
The email contains some complex information. Can you provide a summary, highlighting the key points and any actions I need to take?
Pro Tip: While AI is a whiz with summaries, it doesn’t always make things shorter — and it may not know what you’ll find most valuable. That’s why it’s important to read new information first by yourself, then ask AI for specific help if you’re still not getting it.
4. Tying Up Loose Ends
We’ve all been there: You just spent ages working on a project proposal, business plan, or other lengthy document. All that’s left is to pull it together with a brilliant conclusion, but you’re too wiped out to write another word. That’s where AI can help. By reading your document, it can quickly provide a neat conclusion that matches your unique style.
Here's what I would ask — and don’t forget to attach your document:
Could you review the document I’ve uploaded and help me write a strong conclusion? I want to summarize the main points and provide a clear takeaway for the reader.
5. Simulating Different Perspectives
While there’s no substitute for a human perspective, AI can help you to analyze your thinking from a wider variety of angles than you could by yourself. Think of it like a pre-peer review so you can be confident your real peers receive the best version of your work.
Here’s how you can use AI to stress-test your point of view:
Can you play the role of an opposing viewpoint and critique my message? I want to make sure I'm prepared for any challenges.
Pro Tip: Let AI be your “sparring partner.” Its conversational structure makes it a great tool for poking holes in an argument, pointing out potential areas for confusion, or providing examples of questions readers may have.
Get Ready for Generative AI @ Pitt
With all the buzz surrounding AI, we understand how challenging it can be to make sense of it all. Big or small — the questions you have are shared by many (including those of us leading the charge). That’s why we’re making it our mission to prepare the University community for the next generation of work.
This is the first in a series of articles designed to help you understand what’s possible with Generative AI @ Pitt. Remember — it's not about removing what’s human. It's about working smarter and freeing yourself to do more of what you love.
— Rachel Bachy, Pitt Digital
How did Generative AI @ Pitt support this article?
PittGPT provided the five italicized prompt suggestions in response to the context I supplied. I also tested each of the prompts with Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat to make sure they worked.
