Knowledge base

September 07, 2025

AI Literacy – Mandatory AND Valuable

 

Introduction: why AI literacy is essential now

New AI legislation and guidelines from the Personal Data Authority (AP) make AI literacy indispensable for Dutch companies. It’s not just about compliance, but especially about safe and effective use of AI in daily practice.

Yet many SMBs struggle with:
❌ Insufficient knowledge about AI risks and privacy
❌ No clear policy around AI use
❌ Lack of training and awareness among employees

At ALTA-ICT, we see daily how these challenges affect productivity and security in organizations. That’s why we offer an approach that makes AI literacy not only mandatory, but valuable to your business.

What is AI literacy?

AI literacy means employees:

  • Understanding what AI does and the risks involved.

  • Secure and responsible data handling in line with the AVG.

  • Be able to work with practical AI tools such as Microsoft 365 Copilot.

In the Netherlands, this plays extra strongly because of the combination of AVG regulations, NEN7510 in healthcare and the BIO for government agencies. AI literacy is thus not only a technical skill, but also a compliance obligation.

 

How do you implement AI literacy in your organization?

The Personal Data Authority recommends a multi-year action plan with 4 phases². At ALTA-ICT, we translate this into an ISO-certified approach for Dutch companies:

  1. Identify
    AP: Register AI systems and risks.
    ALTA-ICT: Zero measurement + compliance check (AVG, ISO27001, NEN7510).

  2. Goal setting
    AP: Prioritize risks and knowledge levels.
    ALTA-ICT: AI policy, governance framework and change management.

  3. Conduct
    AP: Training, governance and monitoring.
    ALTA-ICT: Practical Microsoft 365 training, workshops and secure adoption process.

  4. Evaluate
    AP: Periodic analyses and reports.
    ALTA-ICT: Annual audits, KPI monitoring and ongoing optimization.

➡️ AI literacy is an iterative process: ALTA-ICT helps you grow with new legislation and technology each year.

A MULTI-YEAR ACTION PLAN HELPS IN BUILDING AI LITERACY (AIG)

 

Challenges for Dutch companies

Many SMEs report that AI:

  • Feels too complex to implement without specialist knowledge.

  • Risks with privacy can pose, especially with customer data.

  • Evokes resistance from employees due to uncertainty and unfamiliarity.

With a structured approach, ALTA-ICT can remove these obstacles through training, governance and change management.

 

ROI of AI literacy

AI literacy provides tangible benefits:

  • 30% higher productivity when using AI in Office tools.

  • Reduced risk of data breaches thanks to AVG-proof policies.

  • Faster adoption of new AI solutions without a long learning curve.

Companies that take AI literacy seriously strengthen their competitive position AND minimize compliance risks.

 

The ALTA-ICT approach

At ALTA-ICT, we provide:
✅ Customized AI training in Microsoft 365 and AI tools
✅ AI governance and policies aligned with ISO27001 & NEN7510
✅ Change management to keep employees safe and productive
✅ Dutch compliance specialization (AVG, BIO, sector legislation)

Our team combines technical expertise with practical advice so your organization is ready for the 2025 AI legislation.

 

FAQ – AI literacy in the Netherlands

1. Is AI literacy really mandatory now?
Yes, since Feb. 2, 2025, AI regulation requires employees to be AI literate

2. How long does it take to implement AI literacy?
Average 3 to 6 months, depending on size and sector.

3. Is training necessary only for IT staff?
No, AI touches all departments: HR, finance, marketing and operations.

4. How do I know if my organization is compliant?
Through our free AI checklist, you’ll gain instant insight.

5. Can you provide sector-specific support (healthcare, government, finance)?
Yes, we work in accordance with NEN7510, BIO and DNB guidelines.

6. Is there an official guide on AI literacy in the Netherlands?
Yes, the Personal Data Authority has published the document “Aan de slag met AI-geletterdheid”: a practical guide with a multi-year action plan for organizations².

 

Conclusion: Make AI literacy your advantage

AI literacy is not only an obligation from legislation, but above all a strategic opportunity. Companies that invest in it now are ready for the future and benefit directly from working more productively with AI.

👉 Want to get your organization AI-ready?
Schedule a free consultation through alta-ict.co.uk/DemoBooks.

 

Reference

¹https://www.linkedin.com/posts/altaict_iso27001-nen7510-ai-activity-7358723522589827072-0VQk

²https://www.autoriteitpersoonsgegevens.nl/system/files?file=2025-01/Aan%20de%20slag%20met%20AI-geletterdheid.pdf

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