AI Governance FAQ
What is AI governance?
Quick answer
AI governance is how an organisation decides which AI uses are acceptable, assigns responsibility and checks that the controls work. It covers information handling, review of outputs, incidents and changes. Applicable law informs those arrangements, but the EU AI Act does not impose one identical governance structure on every business.
What AI governance includes in practice
In practice, an AI governance programme has several interlocking components. An AI use policy defines what the organisation permits and prohibits when using AI; covering tools, data handling, verification requirements, and employee obligations. An AI inventory maps every system in use across the organisation, classified by risk tier. A governance structure identifies who is responsible for AI decisions at board, senior management, and operational levels. A risk register captures known AI risks and the controls in place. Oversight mechanisms; whether a governance committee, a designated AI lead, or a review process; ensure that AI decisions are monitored and errors are caught. Incident reporting processes handle AI failures. And an audit trail documents the organisation's governance activity for regulators, clients, and internal accountability.
AI governance and the EU AI Act
The organisation's legal role and use determine the relevant AI Act duties. A provider of high-risk AI has different work from a business using an ordinary assistant. Literacy measures and specific transparency duties may apply without the full high-risk regime. Good governance records the assessment and ensures someone acts on it. Use current authority guidance and application dates; avoid treating August 2026 as one deadline for all AI systems.
Legal references reviewed 4 October 2026. High-risk provisions have phased application and transition rules. Sources: Commission timetable, deployer duties, impact-assessment scope and literacy guidance.
Acuity AI builds AI governance frameworks for Irish organisations, from policy to oversight structure to board reporting. AI governance consulting for Irish organisations.