Use cases for Generative AI
The Open University
Last updated August 30, 2026
Use cases for Generative AI comes in two halves: general use cases, where large language models absorb repetitive work and free a team's capacity for higher-value tasks, and then examples of AI solutions being applied in the advice and legal sector specifically. It is not a sales pitch — the course is direct that these models produce errors, that outputs still need human oversight, and that over-reliance can de-skill an organization. Alongside the examples it covers the change side: a strategic framework for adopting AI tools, and the ADKAR model of change management. It is part of AI Law and Legal Training, a free collection on OpenLearn Create for advice and legal contexts. A self-paced course of around two and a half to three hours including a short quiz; enrolling is free.
Part 4 of 8 in AI Law and Legal Training
- Understanding Generative AI
- Skills and strategies for using Generative AI
- Key considerations for successful Generative AI adoption
- Use cases for Generative AI (you are here)
- Ethical and responsible use of Generative AI
- Navigating risk management
- Understanding legal regulation and compliance
- Preparing for tomorrow: horizon scanning and AI literacy
What you'll learn
- Common generative AI use cases, and how to map them onto your own work
- Where AI solutions are being applied in the advice and legal sector
- Automating routine processes to free capacity for higher-value work
- The counterweights: model errors, human oversight, and de-skilling
- A strategic framework for adopting AI tools, and the ADKAR change-management model
Frequently asked questions about Use cases for Generative AI
Who is Use cases for Generative AI for?
Advisers, legal professionals and managers who want concrete examples of generative AI at work in their own sector, plus a method for introducing it to a team.
Is Use cases for Generative AI free?
Yes — Use cases for Generative AI is completely free to take.
Does Use cases for Generative AI offer a certificate?
Yes. Digital badge and course certificate, awarded on completing all sections and passing the course quiz.
Why we suggest this course
Most use-case tours are lists of possibilities. This one attaches the cost to each: automation frees capacity, and it also introduces errors and, over time, erodes skills if nobody is checking the work. The sector-specific second half is the part that is hard to find elsewhere — where AI is actually being applied in advice and legal services, rather than in generic office work. Bringing in ADKAR says what the course is really about: getting a team to adopt a tool, not just picking one. AI Law and Legal Training is funded by UKRI Responsible AI and built by The Open University and the University of Lincoln with Citizens Advice, with support from lawyers at Fieldfisher, Mishcon de Reya and Browne Jacobson.