Summary: When using generative AI (GenAI) to create images for your website, adhere to McGill's general guidelines for using AI-generated images. Think carefully about where these images will be most useful as they can be ethically problematic and have a large carbon footprint.
Guidelines for creating images using GenAI
Are you using or thinking about using GenAI tools to create images for your McGill website?
If you are, make sure to read and follow McGill's general guidelines for using AI-generated images. These guidelines cover important considerations like privacy, authenticity, integrity, and copyright. For example:
- Generative AI tools should not be used to create depictions of individuals, including students, faculty, or staff from McGill University.
- AI-generated images should not be presented as authentic or real and should be explicitly labeled as "AI-generated". For example, include a statement like: "This image was created using generative AI software."
- Ensure that any AI tool used does not create content based on copyrighted works without appropriate permissions.
Read the guidelines for full details.
Tips for determining when to use AI-generated images
It's important to carefully consider if and when AI-generated images add value.
Consider using photography first
Prospective students often tell us they love seeing real photos of our campuses and students on our sites. They want to feel a sense of connection with our community.
We receive similar feedback from prospective staff and members of the general public. People want to know what to expect when they arrive on our campuses.
For these reasons, we encourage using real McGill photography where images will be useful. Communications staff have access to a large image bank of McGill photographs.
In contrast, AI-generated images may show McGill in an unrealistic, inaccurate way and can be ethically problematic. AI-generated images also have a significantly large carbon footprint.
Benefits of using AI-generated images
AI-generated images can be useful for creating a custom visual theme for your site. AI-generated illustrations can be a good way to convey emotions and ideas that aren't easily photographed. They can also be quickly and easily produced at little or no cost.
For inspiration and ideas, read our recommendations about How to use images better.
Keep in mind that it’s important to use images only when they add contextual value. Industry research and McGill usability studies show that decorative images don't improve user experience. People often overlook them or find them annoying and confusing.
Consider supporting local artists instead of using AI-generated images
We’re very lucky to live in a city filled with talented artists. If your web project requires unique artwork, consider hiring an artist. Artists bring unique perspectives, experiences, and cultural backgrounds to their work to create images that authentically reflect our community. For guidance, contact McGill’s Graphic Design team.
Related links
- McGill endorses the secure version of Microsoft Copilot that protects our data. To learn more, read IT Services' article, Secure version of Microsoft Copilot available to McGill community.
- Learn how to use Microsoft Copilot: Log in to myCourses to start the module.
- For more information, visit the IT Knowledge Base article: About: Microsoft Copilot and read Microsoft Copilot and general guidelines for using generative AI tools.
- Web Services: How (not) to use images
- Getting started with prompts for image-based Generative AI tools, Harvard University, IT Services
- Generative AI: UNESCO study reveals alarming evidence of regressive gender stereotypes
- Making an image with generative AI uses as much energy as charging your phone, MIT Technology Review
