#United States #Teaneck #Artificial Intelligence #Cognizant #ISO/IEC 42001

Cognizant Becomes First to Achieve International AI Certification

Cognizant, a prominent player in the IT service sector, has made headlines by becoming the first company globally to secure the ISO/IEC 42001:2023 accreditation. This significant certification recognizes Cognizant's leadership in the development, management, and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) systems in a manner that prioritizes safety, trustworthiness, and ethical considerations.

In a statement made by Cognizant's CEO, Ravi Kumar S, the company expressed pride in being the pioneer of this certification within the industry. He emphasized the growing requirement for businesses to partner with organizations that not only innovate but also share their values and sustainability aspirations. The certification not only reinforces Cognizant's dedication to responsible AI development but also solidifies its reputation as a reliable partner for digital transformation.

The ISO/IEC 42001 standard is a groundbreaking international framework designed to assist organizations in managing AI-related risks and harnessing opportunities throughout the AI lifecycle. It ensures that companies maintain a commitment to the responsible development and deployment of AI solutions. The certification was awarded by DNV, a globally recognized provider of management systems certifications.

Barbara Frencia, CEO of Business Assurance at DNV, remarked on the significance of this achievement. She highlighted that Cognizant's move to attain the ISO/IEC 42001 certification should inspire other companies in the IT sector to adopt similar responsible practices regarding AI. This certification is a milestone that signifies Cognizant's robust governance processes for AI, aimed at minimizing risks while fostering trust both internally and externally.

Furthermore, Cognizant's commitment to ethical AI practices is underscored by their approach to governance and risk management. The certification process not only validated the effectiveness of Cognizant's AI framework but also spotlighted the dedication of its teams to meet the stringent criteria set forth in this standard. Alexis Samuel, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Delivery Excellence at Cognizant, noted that the journey to become certified was a collaborative effort across various departments, including marketing, IT, legal, and customer service. This cross-functional strategy ensures a uniform application of AI governance standards in all of Cognizant's client interactions and internal operations.

Research from Cognizant in collaboration with Oxford Economics reveals that a significant majority (76%) of businesses plan to harness AI to develop new revenue streams. This shift signals an escalating demand for AI across different sectors, presenting greater opportunities for business transformation. However, it also highlights the necessity for robust governance frameworks to manage the inherent risks associated with AI technology as it becomes more widely adopted by organizations.

Amir Banifatemi, Cognizant's Chief Responsible AI Officer, remarked on the profound implications of the certification in aligning innovation with ethical practices. He asserted that for AI to maximize its potential benefits, it must be designed and executed with a foundation of trust, accountability, and social impact. This milestone not only reinforces Cognizant's role as a leader in AI safety but also promotes principles of fairness, transparency, and sustainability throughout various industries.

Key aspects emphasized by the ISO/IEC 42001:2023 certification include:

• - Responsible AI Development : Shifting focus to ethical creation and utilization of AI technologies.
• - Risk and Opportunity Management : Comprehensive strategies to recognize and mitigate potential risks associated with AI.
• - Fairness and Transparency : Commitment to ensuring equitable treatment and clarity in AI operations and decisions.
• - Security and Reliability : Mechanisms to uphold operational integrity and genuine functionality of AI systems.
• - Adaptability : Flexibility to adjust to technological advancements and remain aligned with sustainability initiatives.

Cognizant's comprehensive organizational strategy and change management tactics engaged various teams to embed responsible AI principles deeply into their operational ethos. This endeavor not only prepares Cognizant to meet evolving market demands but also positions it as a forerunner in ethical AI practices within the tech industry.

As organizations globally strive to modernize their operations through digital transformation, Cognizant remains committed to driving innovation while steadfastly adhering to ethical standards in AI governance. This achievement not only marks a new chapter for Cognizant but also sets a positive precedent for the future of ethical AI deployment in the technology landscape.

In conclusion, Cognizant's acquisition of the ISO/IEC 42001:2023 certification illustrates its determination to lead in the responsible use of AI. By fostering a culture built on ethical considerations, Cognizant is not just creating groundbreaking AI systems but is also building a sustainable future for the digital economy.