Employees believe that the impact of artificial intelligence is minimal in many workplaces.
Only one in three appreciates an increase in productivity.
Despite the expectations regarding how artificial intelligence (AI) could transform the workplace, a recent study indicates that its impact is not as pronounced as anticipated. According to research by WSP, 70% of workers in the UK report that AI influences their jobs, but only 38% have noticed improvements in their efficiency and 33% in their productivity. Furthermore, less than half of the respondents (47%) feel prepared to face the changes driven by AI, highlighting the need for more training efforts.
Despite the current situation, a notable 84% of workers are confident that the positive effects of AI will continue in the future, with hopes for increases in efficiency (41%) and productivity (37%). Almost three out of four employees (72%) say that their companies offer resources to help them adapt, with this support being more noticeable in sectors where AI is already well established, such as manufacturing (80%) and transport and communications (78%).
Dan Scott, Director of Data Science at WSP, has pointed out that while employees recognize the advantages of AI, there is a significant gap between their expectations and the current reality. It is crucial for organizations to effectively implement AI technologies and train their staff with the skills needed to face a future full of opportunities.
The study also addresses the topic of sustainability, revealing that over half (52%) of the 4,000 workers surveyed are willing to retrain to adapt their skills to more eco-friendly roles. Some 45% mentioned they would stay longer in their current position or seek another job (38%) if it were related to sustainability.
Proper implementation of AI could contribute to reducing a company's carbon footprint, although it also represents an environmental challenge due to the high energy consumption of the data centers required for its operation. Looking ahead, it is clear that companies must align their employee support and training with organizational policies and emerging technologies to achieve an adequate balance.
