What to Look Out for When Acquiring AI Systems

A new IEEE standard, IEEE 3119-2025, is nearing completion to guide the procurement of artificial intelligence and automated decision systems, particularly for high-risk public sector applications. Developed over three years, the standard aims to help government entities in areas like education, health, and employment manage risks associated with AI acquisition. Feedback from a European Union agency prompted revisions, including the addition of a "solicitation preparation" phase to address challenges in defining AI-specific requirements and vendor governance. This new process helps procurement teams adapt solicitations with technical and responsible AI considerations, especially crucial in evolving regulatory landscapes.

This standard is significant because it addresses a gap in international guidelines by providing a risk-based, operational framework for responsibly acquiring high-risk AI systems, which is essential for governments deploying AI in public services.