May contain AI

BY Équipe Riposte

As we sometimes read on food packaging—may contain traces of peanuts—we could now apply a similar label to many human creations, whether written, visual, analytical, or even strategic.

Recent media coverage on the use of artificial intelligence by public organizations to illustrate their publications has sparked debate. Yet, if we take a step back, the real question is not “are we using AI?” but rather: why do we still pretend that we are not?

AI is everywhere…

Generative artificial intelligence is no longer an abstract concept. It is now embedded in our search engines, our software, and our creative platforms—and this is only the beginning. This technological presence accelerates research, helps structure ideas, and generates drafts. In short, AI allows us to go faster and further.

And yet…

It often happens, during a conversation or at the end of a meeting, that the tone shifts—becoming more confidential. A client will confide, almost cautiously: “We use AI…” As if it were a marginal practice. As if it required justification.

Then the discussion continues: “We realize that AI is being used by our teams for a wide range of applications.”

At the end of the day, nothing extraordinary, nothing irresponsible. Simply professionals using the tools of their time—not to replace their judgment, but to get to what matters faster.

In most cases, these managers are searching for the right posture to adopt and feel the need to ethically frame the use of AI within their organizations.

Like a trace of peanuts

When a product may contain nuts, it does not mean it is defective. It means a choice has been made to be transparent. We believe we have reached a similar moment. It is now reasonable—and even desirable—to say:

Not to diminish its value, but to acknowledge reality. AI does not replace thinking. It accelerates its expression. It does not replace judgment. It does not replace responsibility. Humans remain the authors. Humans remain accountable.

For us, the real question is not usage. It is ethics.

The issue is not that AI is being used. The issue would be if it were used:

• without validation;
• without critical thinking;
• without transparency;
• without a framework.

Like any powerful technology, it requires maturity and discernment.

For managers, the question becomes tangible

More and more managers we speak with are asking very legitimate questions:

• How can we acknowledge the use of AI without trivializing it?
• How can we leverage it without compromising rigor?
• How can we protect data while enabling innovation?
• Above all, how can we adopt a consistent posture across the organization?

There is no single answer.

Each organization must define its own framework, based on its mission, culture, obligations, and level of digital maturity. But one thing is clear: the reflection is already underway.

The organizations most at ease with these transformations are often those that take the time to:

• name the reality;
• open the discussion;
• clarify expectations;
• gradually define their own guidelines.

Not to impose unnecessary restrictions, but to enable responsible, thoughtful use aligned with their values.

So let’s say it plainly: may contain AI

Not as a warning, but as a statement of transparency.

Because AI is now part of our professional environment. Denying it will not make it disappear. Embracing it will allow us to better frame it—and, above all, to keep humans where they belong (we hope): at the center of decision-making.

Our commitment

At Riposte, the use of artificial intelligence is guided by clear principles: human validation, data protection, intellectual rigor, and professional accountability. We believe transparency should be a standard we openly embrace.

Read our statement on the responsible
use of artificial intelligence: 

AI Usage Statement

Because AI is not a mistake to hide.
It is a tool to be used intelligently.