Copyright, Generative AI, and Workplace Content Use – 3 key takeaways from CLA’s latest webinar

November 25, 2025 By Rebecca Owen

As organisations embrace digital tools and generative AI, the way we use published content is changing fast. In our recent webinar, we explored what this means for businesses and professionals, and how a CLA Business Licence can provide support.

Here are the three biggest takeaways:

1. Published content powers everyday workflows

Professionals rely on a wide range of sources such as news media, trade publications, government reports, and eBooks to stay informed and deliver value at work. In fact, 59% of UK professionals use five or more different titles regularly. But with 81% of this content now digital, the ease of access also makes it easier to copy and share, raising the risk of unintentional copyright infringement.

Poll insight: Most respondents said their organisation has a CLA Business Licence, but nearly a quarter weren’t sure, highlighting a need for greater awareness and internal communication.

2. Generative AI is driving productivity, but adding risk

Generative AI tools are now part of everyday work. According to our 2025 research, 63% of professionals are using them, mainly for creating text, images, and presentations. While these tools boost efficiency and creativity, 82% of users include third-party content in prompts, often without considering copyright implications. Nearly half have shared AI-generated outputs externally, and 28% have posted them publicly.

Poll insight: Most respondents use generative AI for content-related tasks like creating or refining text, with research and summarisation as strong secondary uses. Around 8 – 10% avoid or are restricted from using AI altogether.

3. Updated CLA Licences enable responsible innovation

To help organisations innovate safely, CLA has introduced new Workplace Generative AI permissions that allow opted-in published content to be used in prompts for permitted generative AI tools (such as paid versions of Microsoft Copilot or Google Gemini). These permissions support lawful reuse for tasks like summarising reports, creating presentations, and drafting copy, helping businesses stay compliant while embracing AI-driven productivity.

Free resource: To support good governance, we’ve launched a CPD-certified online course to provide practical training on these Workplace Generative AI Permissions. It’s free and open to anyone who wants to understand how updated CLA licence terms enable lawful use of published content when prompting generative AI tools.

Copyright compliance isn’t just a legal safeguard; it’s a strategic enabler. With updated CLA licences and free training resources, organisations can balance innovation with responsibility, ensuring creators and rightsholders are remunerated while businesses work smarter.

Missed the webinar?

You can still catch the full session on demand, including deeper insights into how the CLA Law Licence and updated permissions help the UK legal sector stay compliant while unlocking the benefits of generative AI at work.

Request the on-demand webinar now