A recent global study by Workday found that professionals familiar with AI are optimistic about its role in the workplace. The report highlights a belief that AI will augment, rather than replace, human skills and productivity.
Workday Staff Writers
Workday
The latest global study from Workday, “Elevating Human Potential: The AI Skills Revolution,” highlights AI’s potential to amplify human capabilities and productivity. The data gleaned from professionals who are using or plan to use AI reveals a prevailing optimism about the future, one in which AI is viewed not as a replacement but as an enhancer of human skills.
To navigate this AI-augmented future successfully, the report emphasizes five key principles:
The research revealed that 83% of respondents agree AI will enhance human creativity and lead to new forms of economic value. That’s because AI has the capacity to liberate individuals from mundane, repetitive tasks, allowing them to channel their energy and focus into more strategic and creative endeavors.
AI can serve as a creative assistant, generating novel ideas, automating content creation, and personalizing user experiences. By taking over routine aspects of creative work, AI can enable humans to explore new frontiers and push the boundaries of innovation.
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While 82% of individual contributors agree with the statement that “employees will crave more human connection as AI usage grows,” only 65% of managers say the same. This is one of the bigger disconnects we found and presents leaders with the opportunity to give their employees the connection they need.
What’s more, AI can equip leaders with data-driven insights and predictive analytics, empowering them to make informed and strategic decisions. By automating routine administrative tasks, AI can free up leaders’ time, enabling them to concentrate on higher-level responsibilities such as fostering a positive work culture, building strong relationships, and inspiring their teams.
AI can also help leaders identify emerging trends and potential disruptions, ensuring their organizations remain agile and competitive.
When asked about the main benefits of using AI to enhance productivity, the top responses focused on learning and building skills:
In the rapidly evolving landscape of work, continuous learning and upskilling are essential for remaining relevant and adaptable. AI can play a pivotal role in identifying skills gaps within an organization, recommending personalized learning pathways and facilitating knowledge sharing among employees.
By providing access to curated learning resources and offering real-time feedback, AI can empower individuals to acquire new skills and knowledge at their own pace.
Looking ahead, the data suggests that AI will spark a human skills revolution, redefining the nature of work and unlocking new possibilities for human achievement.
90% of respondents agree AI can play a significant role in increasing transparency and accountability in organizations, with leaders (92%) and employees (89%) closely aligned.
Trust is the cornerstone of any successful organization. AI can enhance trust by promoting transparency and accountability in business operations. By automating data collection and analysis, AI can reduce the risk of human error and bias, leading to more accurate and reliable information.
AI can also help organizations monitor compliance with regulations and ethical standards, fostering a culture of trust and integrity.
AI helps free up human capacity for more meaningful work and collaboration. 93% of active AI users agree that AI allows them to focus more on higher-level responsibilities such as strategy and problem-solving. Effective collaboration is essential for achieving shared goals and driving innovation.
AI can break down data silos and facilitate seamless communication and information sharing across teams and departments. By automating routine tasks and providing real-time access to relevant data, AI can enable employees to collaborate more efficiently and effectively. AI-powered tools can also facilitate virtual collaboration, connecting individuals across different locations and time zones.
Looking ahead, the data suggests that AI will spark a human skills revolution, redefining the nature of work and unlocking new possibilities for human achievement.
Organizations that embrace a human-centric approach to AI adoption, invest in skills development, and foster a culture of transparency and collaboration will be well-positioned to thrive in the AI-driven future.
By maximizing AI to augment human capabilities, we can create a future where humans and machines work together, or, as our CEO writes, “peacefully coexist,” to achieve extraordinary outcomes.
Read the “Elevating Human Potential: The AI Skills Revolution” global report, and dive into all things AI in our AI Masterclass series.
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The rapid advancement of AI has raised huge questions about its impact on jobs. Despite that, 83% of workers agree that AI will enhance human creativity rather than limit it. Learn more about the AI skills revolution in this new global Workday study.