What Is Operational AI Governance?

A plain-English explanation of the difference between an AI policy and an AI governance operating model.

Operational governance

Operational AI governance is the set of roles, processes, controls, evidence and reporting that helps an organisation understand and manage how AI is used.

Why it matters

A policy can set direction, but it does not discover systems, assign owners, assess impacts, record approvals or maintain assurance evidence. Those activities need repeatable workflows and clear accountability.

Practical starting point

Create an AI use case register.
Assign accountable owners.
Assess risk and impact.
Define proportionate controls.
Record approvals and review dates.
Maintain evidence for assurance.