This brief summarizes important information, relevant to FSSP (forensic science service providers) leaders, about artificial intelligence and its application to forensic science.
This publication outlines what FSSP (forensic science service providers) leaders should know about artificial intelligence (AI) and its application to forensic science. Artificial intelligence (AI), which leverages computers to perform tasks that “enhance decision-making, problem-solving capabilities, and technology-driven innovativeness,” is a rapidly growing area of interest for both industry and the federal research and development (R&D) community. For forensic science service providers (FSSPs), AI-enabled technologies represent a significant opportunity to improve the way FSSPs identify, analyze, and reach conclusions on forensic physical evidence. Although most AI applications for forensic evidence currently remain in R&D phases, FSSP leaders must educate themselves and plan for future opportunities to invest in and leverage continuing AI advances. The opportunities to improve forensic laboratory workflow and analyses with AI are significant, but AI and its potential implementation by FSSPs is multifaceted and complex. This brief was developed to help FSSP leadership understand the opportunities and realities of implementing future AI-enabled technologies in forensic science, highlight current research efforts, and help readers effectively plan for the inevitable future of AI.