CANChat, SSC’s first generative AI chatbot

Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere, with articles published daily on its potential uses. But how can the Government of Canada make the most of this emerging technology?

SSC is running a pilot on one possible tool: CANChat, the department's first generative AI chatbot.

What is CANChat?

CANChat is a generative AI tool created by SSC's AI Program (AIP) to enhance employee productivity by using large language models (LLMs) for unclassified work. LLMs are advanced AI systems that generate human-like text by analyzing vast amounts of text data. Learn more about LLMs by reading Tech 101: Generative Artificial Intelligence (accessible only on the Government of Canada network).

While ChatGPT and other chatbots often house their LLMs and data in foreign countries, CANChat ensures all information remains in Canada. It also safeguards all data, including the content it learns from, in alignment with GC policies and standards. Unlike other chatbots, CANChat does not use prompts to train its AI, which further protects user privacy.

Like other AI tools, CANChat should not be used for sensitive or classified purposes. Additionally, generative AI outputs should always be thoroughly reviewed.

What can CANChat do?

Like ChatGPT and similar generative AI tools, CANChat can help employees become more productive. It helps with various tasks, including:

• Document drafting: help create emails, memos and other basic documents while saving time and supporting written expression
• Content editing: adjust the tone, change the formality or reduce the length of content for more effective communication
• Summarizing information: quickly summarize long articles or reports to provide key points without needing to read the entire text
• Research assistance: locate relevant information, answer questions and provide summaries on complex topics
• Meeting preparation: generate agendas, talking points and summaries from transcripts and facilitate efficient meeting preparation and follow-up
• Assistance with Microsoft Office: help generate Excel formulas, charts and other Office tool functionalities to streamline data management and analysis

The CANChat pilot

SSC is conducting a pilot to evaluate CANChat's value and potential for productivity. The pilot aims to gather insights on integrating generative AI into daily workflows. This ensures employees have access to modern digital tools to improve their work experience and collaboration.

The AIP has collected some feedback from pilot participants to measure its impact on productivity. Here are some of the user testimonials:

• "I primarily use CANChat to bridge the gap between technical terminology and executive speak almost every other day. It helps me more easily express my projects to my management team and colleagues."

• "One of the most important things we're using CANChat for is cross-referencing road maps with the project or Service Catalogue. It's helped to reduce the time needed for the task by 30 to 40% so far."

• "Right now, I'm learning Python and it's been useful to say, ‘CANChat, how do I write this particular function' and then CANChat helps me to figure out how to do it."

If you work at SSC and are interested in trying CANChat as part of the pilot program, send an email to dsaiclientengagement.sdiaclientmobilisation@ssc-spc.gc.ca to request access. If you work outside of SSC, we hope to open the pilot to all GC departments and agencies in the coming months.

Related links

• Artificial Intelligence Program (ssc-spc.gc.ca) (accessible only on the Government of Canada network)
• Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (GCXhange) (accessible only on the Government of Canada network)