In the ever-evolving landscape of the modern workplace, businesses are increasingly turning to automation and artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline processes and boost productivity, elevating the overall employee experience. The significance of these technological advancements is of epic proportions, with the boost in employee satisfaction, efficiency and engagement lending to numerous gains all around.
The Rise of Automation & AI in the Workplace
The Pervasiveness of AI
According to Opinium Research, almost half (48%) of European employees regularly use AI tools, such as Chat GPT, with 18% of respondents using it once or more a day. Yet only one in six (16%) companies have offered training on how to utilise AI tools.
When equipped with the right automation tools and technology, 65% of UK and Ireland employees believe they would deliver more value to their organisation. However, selecting the right approach requires careful evaluation, as 68% acknowledge they need to learn more about the benefits of these tools in a work-related scenario.
Employee Productivity & Efficiency Gains
Time-Saving Impact
Automation and AI technologies have been proven to save valuable time for employees and business leaders alike. According to McKinsey, activities consuming more than 20% of a CEO’s working time could be automated using current technologies. Furthermore, countries like China and the United Kingdom have shown a preference for using AI automation to free up workers for higher-value tasks.
Error Reduction
One of the key advantages of automation is its ability to minimise human errors. Automating typically human-driven processes can help you side-step human error by removing reliance on people leading to improved accuracy in tasks and ultimately contributing to a more positive employee experience.
Employee Satisfaction & Engagement
Empowering Employees
Employees who feel that their work is meaningful and contributes to the overall success of the organisation are more likely to be engaged. Organisations integrating AI and automation into their processes often witness an increase in employee satisfaction as employees are freed from mundane tasks and empowered to focus on strategic, value-added activities.
Skill Enhancement and Career Development
Contrary to the fear of job displacement, the implementation of automation often leads to upskilling opportunities for employees. LinkedIn data predicts a 65% shift in job skills by 2030 due to AI and has found a doubling in job listings that specifically mention AI.
AI opens the door for professionals in diverse fields to focus their efforts on inherently human endeavours, requiring qualities such as empathy, insight and discretion.
LinkedIn members have seen the core skills of their job evolve by 25% since 2015. With the rapid development of AI tools, it is expected that job skills will change even faster – by up to 65% total change by 2030.
The impact of AI extends beyond the technology sector and tech workers, all industries employ workers in jobs that stand to be transformed by these new technologies. As the impact of AI-driven automation broadens, this will compel workers, business leaders and stakeholders to adapt fast.
Overcoming Challenges & Building a Human-Centric Workplace
Addressing Concerns
While the benefits are evident, concerns about job security and the ethical use of AI persist. Organisations promoting collaboration between humans and AI technologies can experience an increase in innovation and problem-solving capabilities. This collaboration not only enhances employee experience but also drives business success in the long run.
The integration of automation and AI is not just a technological upgrade, it is a fundamental shift in how businesses operate and how employees experience their work. By leveraging these technologies thoughtfully, organisations can unlock new levels of productivity, efficiency and employee satisfaction, ushering in a new era of work that is both human-centred and technologically advanced.