DENVER — KeyBank has taken a gamified approach to train its employees on effective prompt writing for generative AI. 

The $192 billion bank launched its “prompt-a-thon” program in January to train employees on basic AI use Mike Reynolds, business technology executive, said during the FinAi Banking Summit on March 2 in Denver. 

During a prompt-a-thon, 30 to 40 employees from each business vertical are offered basic AI training followed by prompt training, Reynolds said. The prompt training is gamified, encouraging employees to compete to create the most effective prompt.

Reynolds compared the program to “March Madness,” with its bracket-style organization, noting that the best prompts win. 

“One of my favorite examples is asking employees to scan through loan agreements … and figure out a prompt for what would be the best minimum and maximum rate for the application,” Reynolds said.   

Since the launch of its prompt training program, the bank has trained nearly 100 employees, Reynolds said. 

The bank has already provided some level of AI training to all employees, he said, adding that the bank will continue to provide additional training specialized for employees’ job functions. 

The Cleveland, OH-based KeyBank reported during Q4 earnings call on Jan. 20 that it is saving 97% on its call center costs by using AII. Specifically, a call handled by AI costs the bank $0.25 compared with $9 for a call serviced by a human. 

Read more coverage from FinAi Banking Summit here.