Artificial Intelligence (AI) is on an expanding spree after the launch of various AI tools (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, etc). They were launched with a motive to get more productivity in less time.
However, a thin line is seen between organizations accepting this technology vs. rejecting it.
This literally means that everyone has their feedback regarding this technology, which consists of a blend of enthusiasm, skepticism, and concerns.
Many employees feel that AI has brought a revolution to their work and that they can perform better in their jobs.
According to an official survey conducted by HP, 66% employees are in favour of using AI for their work in 2024. This is a 38% increase from 2023.
Furthermore, the same report recommends more numbers for AI, which says that 73% believe that AI has made their work life easier. Additionally, 69% used customized AI tools, and their productivity went up to a new level.
Karim R. Lakhani, Chair of the Digital Data Design Institute at Harvard, emphasizes the transformative potential of AI, stating, "We’re at the forefront of integrating AI to not just work faster, but to work smarter. It’s our responsibility as organizational leaders to ensure that this technology elevates our teams’ creativity and aligns with our ethical values."
The positive side of AI can also be visible in the scientific domain, where a study was conducted by MIT Ph.D. student Aidan Toner-Rodgers. This study revealed that the introduction of AI in a materials science R&D lab led to a 44% increase in material discoveries and a 39% rise in patent filings.
However, 82% of researchers are negative about AI implementation in the workplace. They have an opinion that it leads to decreased job satisfaction due to the automation of idea generation.
AI technology has another side also, which many employees are not liking. A survey by the American Psychological Association found that nearly 38% of U.S. workers feared that AI might render some or all of their job duties obsolete in the future. This anxiety was linked to negative perceptions of workplace conditions and personal mental health.
In another study by UpWork's Research Institute, it is seen that 77% of workers are overburdened with work with the introduction of AI in their workplace.
Employees reported spending additional time reviewing AI-generated content and learning to use these tools effectively.
Employee attitudes toward AI vary significantly. Research by Slack identified five distinct personas reflecting different levels of AI acceptance: The Maximalist, The Underground, The Rebel, The Superfan, and The Observer. Notably, only 50% of respondents were either Maximalists or part of the Underground, who adopt AI openly and covertly, respectively.
There is also a role of gender and age differences while talking about AI. As a matter of fact, women and older workers are against AI. This can be due to concerns over job security and trust.
Jeff Lange, CEO of TFAS, a financial advisory firm, has stated his views that there should be an AI expert to supervise every AI strategy. Furthermore, that person should implement these plans smoothly.
Additionally, he said that AI tools have the power to improve efficiency by about 25%.
Leslie Hammer, PhD, emerita professor of psychology at Portland State University, advises, "It’s very important that workplaces communicate information regarding any changes related to AI clearly and honestly. Providing information about the use of AI and allowing employee input into such changes will significantly alleviate these outcomes.
It is mandatory to understand the demand of the workers that are ready to accept the new technology or they need time? Furthermore, they should be provided with proper training to provide relief to them from a thought that this technology will take away their job.
Undoubtedly, AI has the capacity to rule in the employment world. However, it should not be forced but implemented with the say of everyone.
Many corporations are already using this technology; however, some are still thinking whether to refrain from it or not.