UW-IT is leading the development of a University-wide AI Strategy to responsibly integrate artificial intelligence into teaching, research, and administration. Our AI-first approach will improve access to trusted AI tools, strengthen ethical and transparent practices, and help prepare our workforce for a rapidly changing world.
By delivering trusted solutions and advancing responsible innovation, UW-IT aims to give the University a competitive advantage in the evolving AI landscape, empowering global collaboration, expanding access to transformative technologies, and driving breakthroughs in research. Over the next two years, UW-IT will focus on shared guidelines, expanding AI capabilities, creating a data strategy, and supporting the University of Washington community in using AI ethically and effectively.
Our AI-first strategy supports core institutional priorities:
- Enhance teaching and learning experiences
- Expand research capabilities
- Increase operational efficiency
- Prepare the UW workforce for a future shaped by AI
We approach our work with the following framework:
- Start with the problem to solve
- Ask early: Can AI help solve this problem?
- Commit to ethical, safe, and transparent practices
- Focus on usability and reduce barriers to access
- Build solutions that are trustworthy, transparent, and aligned with UW values
Starting from June 1, 2025, we aim to achieve the following milestones to deliver trusted AI solutions:
- Within three months: Publish the first version of the UW AI Guidelines, which will be a live document that evolves as policies and technologies change
- Within six months: Develop a University-wide data strategy that supports the ethical and safe use of AI
- Within one year: Scale UW’s AI computing environment to provide support to researchers and reduce barriers to access
- Within one year: Launch a vetted, continuously updated AI portfolio that reflects the trusted AI solutions we provide to a broad range of campus use cases
- Within two years: Improve AI proficiency across the UW-IT workforce through hiring, training, and communities of practice
UW-IT’s AI Service Portfolio delivers trusted solutions that give gives students, instructors, researchers, and staff a competitive edge. Our offerings expand access to responsible AI tools, strengthen UW’s global leadership in discovery and innovation, and help the University adapt to evolving needs with agility and integrity.
Explore our infographic for the big picture or keep reading for the full details.
Tailored AI Solutions
AI solutions designed to meet the unique needs of users, teams, and roles.
- Workday: AI Text recognition feature that improves vendor invoice processing.
- Adobe Creative Suite: Integrated AI tools for design professionals and dedicated Firefly image generation capabilities.
- Zoom: Integrated AI-driven transcription, translation, and summarization for calls and meetings.
- MS365 Copilot Chat: Chat feature with text and image generation capabilities currently available to all UW Microsoft users.
- Copilot for MS365: Premium version of Copilot, intended for frequent Microsoft users, that offers integrated AI across Word, Excel, Outlook, and more.
Foundational AI Capabilities
Providing key AI infrastructure designed for and by the UW community, enabling researchers, instructors, and students to accelerate discovery.
- Purple (UW’s Gen AI): In-house AI solution available to all UW users offering essential, broad-based GenAI capabilities including text-based chat and AI bot.
- Tillicum: GPU platform that complements Hyak and can be used in concert or independently to conduct large scale research.
AI Education and Consulting
Approachable AI training and consulting designed to build confidence, spark curiosity, and drive global impacts.
- Consulting on AI Solutions: We help UW departments explore new AI opportunities with confidence by providing tool evaluations, partnership development, and policy and compliance guidance.
- Training on UW’s AI Platforms and Tools: Our curated curriculum helps UW community members learn how to use AI responsibly and effectively by providing in-person and online training on UW-specific platforms and tools.