Artificial intelligence in the workplace is rapidly moving from a productivity tool utilised by employees to evolving into a full-blown digital colleague. While AI is already helping organisations automate routine tasks and support decision-making, new research from Landmark Technologies suggests that many workers believe this is only the beginning.
Unlike traditional automation tools, AI colleagues are increasingly being used to complete more ‘human’ tasks such as summarising information, generating content, analysing data and supporting decision-making. AI colleagues can interact with employees and have the ability to become a part of everyday workflows. However, rather than replacing employees completely, they can complement their work, giving more time for employees to spend on creative and strategic work.
AI workplace trends
AI assistants are being used more and more to improve business efficiency and productivity across workplace operations. However, it is the employees’ opinions of their new AI colleagues that will prove influential going forward. They are ultimately the ones using these systems day-to-day, and therefore their confidence, or lack thereof, in these developments will shape attitudes towards its implementation in Ireland.
According to Landmark’s recent survey findings, one in five Irish workers believe they will be working alongside AI colleagues within the next three years. Mixed opinions were expressed in this regard – one in four workers fear they’ll lose their jobs, while 38% feel the technology will allow them to complete their work more efficiently. Regardless of the mixed sentiment, it’s clear that AI is impacting organisations significantly. Those who do not keep up risk falling behind their competitors who successfully implement these new systems into their daily operations.
Balancing opportunity with employee concerns
Understanding the mixed views employees have about AI adoption is essential for organisations in how they prepare for the future of their work. These perspectives will not only shape how the technology is initially adopted but will also help influence how organisations govern and manage compliance risks with AI in the years ahead. The current divided opinions mean that attitudes are neither completely positive or negative. This points to the importance of communication and responsible implementation being more important than ever, in order to combat the fluctuating levels of trust among both business leaders and employees.
For AI integration to be successful, both businesses and employees need to be willing to work alongside this developing technology and its capabilities. By implementing strong governance, risk and compliance (GRC) frameworks, organisations can stay on top of their responsible use of AI, while employees build their confidence using these systems, rather than fear them as their replacement.
How to prepare your business for AI colleagues
Businesses shouldn’t adopt AI to simply keep up with competitors. By acknowledging and identifying where evolving technologies can add value to an organisation’s operations, strategies can be developed in line with business objectives and GRC frameworks. These frameworks will help influence how AI is introduced and implemented. Keeping in line with existing GRC legislation will ensure organisations can avoid governance challenges and will help them adopt future compliance policies.
Ensuring that employees have the opportunity to become AI literate will instil confidence among them, rather than fearing these developments. While AI can certainly enhance productivity and support decision-making, the way in which employees can exercise critical judgement should not be lost, as they ultimately remain accountable for important business decisions that are made.
In summary
The growth we have seen from AI makes it clear that its role within the workplace will only continue to expand. It’s important to recognise, however, that the businesses who succeed will not be the ones with the latest tech. Those that spend time preparing their workforce, continue to build trust through open communication and govern AI responsibly will be best placed to use the technology to their advantage. Organisations that prepare their workforce today will ultimately be better positioned to reap the benefits of AI tomorrow.
To find out more about Landmark’s cybersecurity and regulatory compliance services, speak to our highly skilled technical or customer service teams. Call us on 01 569 1056 or email hello@landmark.ie.
