Why AI needs more than just good algorithms

Human and robot touching hands, Smart City Berlin

From application to accountability: Artificial intelligence is capable of a great deal. But who is considering the risks? And who decides under what conditions it is used in business, public administration or in private life? In short: Who bears the responsibility? As part of the series ‘Empowering Berlin digitally’, the Technologiestiftung Berlin (Berlin Technology Foundation, TSB) is examining the use of AI in the public sector.

Artificial intelligence has long since become part of everyday life and is growing in importance. Whether in the form of AI assistants, chatbots or through the automation of processes in industry and public administration, artificial intelligence supports businesses, public authorities and citizens alike in many areas as they pursue their interests, carry out their tasks and fulfil their duties. Thus, AI is far more than just a ‘text-processing tool’. It makes it possible to analyse large volumes of data efficiently, process information in a structured manner and create a sound basis for decision-making.

At the same time, the use of AI raises important questions. For example, what rules and risks need to be considered, when it comes to data protection? Or how can barrier-free access be factored in? Above all, this is about the traceability of results. And, at its core, it is also about the role of humans in an increasingly digital environment: what responsibility do they bear, and how can they actively and responsibly shape these systems? The use of AI requires autonomy, sound governance and a clear regulatory framework. Last but not least, users should be empowered to use artificial intelligence safely.

In the series „Berlin digital handlungsfähig machen” (“Empowering Berlin to Act Digitally”) the Berlin Technology Foundation (TSB) examines four areas that determine how digital solutions can be reliably implemented in the day-to-day workings of public administration.Here, the ethical, social and democratic aspects of AI are particularly relevant, as decisions with consequences for citizens are being made.

Read the blog post (German only)

Also of interest: the TSB’s symposium “Demokratische KI. Berliner Wege zur Verantwortung, Steuerung und Souveränität” (“Democratic AI: Berlin’s Paths to Accountability, Governance and Sovereignty”), which took place on 12 May 2026 at Publix Berlin.

A review (German only)

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