How should we address AI-generated posts and comments in our discussion forums?

This is a really timely and interesting topic – the use of AI-generated posts and comments in discussion forums, especially in a community as engaged and specialized as PMI's. It's a delicate balance between embracing innovative tools like AI and maintaining the authenticity and quality of discussions.

So, how should we address this? My first thought is transparency. I believe it's important for community members to know if a post or comment is AI-generated. It's not about discounting the value that AI can bring to a conversation but rather about ensuring that everyone knows the context and origin of the information they're reading. This kind of transparency fosters trust and credibility within the community.

Making it a requirement to disclose the use of AI tools in posts could be a good step. It would help maintain a level of authenticity in the discussions and ensure that responses are evaluated in the correct context. For example, if someone is using AI to draft a response, disclosing this would let other members weigh the response accordingly, particularly in scenarios where personal experience or expert insight is crucial.

However, I also see the potential benefits of AI in enhancing discussions, like providing quick information, suggesting resources, or even generating ideas that can spur further conversation. The key is to use AI as a complement to human interaction, not a replacement.

Regarding the community experience, I think it would be valuable to have clear guidelines on how AI can be used constructively in discussions. Maybe there could be specific threads or sections where AI-generated responses are encouraged, especially for brainstorming or information-gathering purposes.

It's also important to consider how AI responses are moderated. Ensuring that AI-generated content is accurate and relevant is crucial, and there might need to be additional moderation strategies for these kinds of posts.

In short, it's about finding the right balance. We should embrace the benefits that AI offers while ensuring that the community remains a space for genuine human interaction and knowledge sharing. I’d love to hear others' thoughts on this. How do you feel about encountering AI-generated content in forums? Do you see it as a valuable tool, or do you have concerns about its impact on the quality of discussions?

Thanks again to everyone for sharing your thoughts on this topic! Your feedback was foundational (and very informative) to our Online Community Engagement team's discussion around community management and moderation in this new era of AI.

Keith Novak yes, there is certainly a spectrum of AI use, and we have chosen at this point in time to focus on posts that are entirely AI-generated with little to no modification – what Kiron Bondale described as “copy & paste.”

We agree that it is certainly best practice to cite sources, including ChatGPT and other GenAI tools, when post content is not original. Thank you Rami Kaibni and Ali CHAIEB for framing the discussion in this way.

If post content is generated by AI, we expect community members to disclose their use of any AI tools and note the post as “AI-generated.” George Freeman We appreciate you bringing visibility and awareness to Open AI policies.

For now, the site’s User Agreement & User Guidelines will not be updated; such modifications remain under consideration as AI use evolves within our community.

In the meantime, please continue to post your feedback here to help our team improve your experience in the discussion forums.

AI can be a great assistant, but it should never replace the authentic voice of the community. If it’s used for polishing or brainstorming, that’s fine, but if the bulk of a post comes straight from AI, disclosure feels fair and professional. At the end of the day, what keeps this space meaningful are the personal stories, lessons, and reflections that only practitioners can bring.