State Department releases generative AI playbook for federal agencies

The State Department published a generative AI playbook this month to provide federal agencies with a repeatable framework for adopting the technology. The document emphasizes the development of a foundational data and AI governance strategy before launching small pilots and scaling successful initiatives.

The playbook advises agencies to create a dedicated innovation hub and an implementation model that allows officials to develop technology and policy through experimentation. It also recommends establishing a shared enterprise AI platform capable of housing multiple products, not just a single tool.

State Department officials followed this approach by building an enterprise AI platform that includes StateChat, an internal chatbot designed for sensitive but unclassified information. The platform is intended to incorporate additional software over time.

The playbook outlines steps for agencies to set ground rules for generative AI governance, forge internal and external partnerships, collaborate with cybersecurity teams, and ship minimum viable products. It also recommends gradually expanding user access, opening feedback channels, and defining the end of beta testing phases.

According to the playbook, agencies should design tailored resources, training, and engagements to accommodate users with diverse skill levels and workflows. Agencies are also advised to build phased launch plans, secure leadership buy-in, and allow users to create new AI solutions post-launch.

The document measures impact through surveys and focus groups and notes that the State Department’s approach to scaling StateChat was guided by the principle of meeting users where they are.

The State Department is not the first federal agency to release a generative AI playbook; the Department of Homeland Security published its own in 2025 under the Biden administration.