Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a practical tool used to transform workplace roles, boost productivity, and build high-performing teams. Staying up to date with AI developments is key for organisations and professionals to understand how this innovative technology is shaping industries and redefining business frameworks. In this blog post, we consider the latest developments of AI and how businesses can use it to supercharge their teams and embrace it in their day-to-day operations.
How quickly has AI developed over the last few years?
The integration of AI into everyday software, devices, and applications has been a gradual process over the last few years. Virtual assistants, search engines, and social media feeds are all examples of AI-integrated tools we come across every day.
The launch of Chat GPT in 2022 led to a huge surge of interest in AI and has been one of the most successful consumer products of all time. The advanced chatbot has significantly boosted public awareness of AI and demonstrated its potential for a wide range of tasks. Fast-forward to today, and approximately 78% of organisations across the globe use artificial intelligence (AI) in at least one business function. This has risen significantly from 55% in 2023[i] which has been driven from the increased adoption of generative AI.
How can businesses leverage AI tools and strategies?
This era of technology has brought about AI tools that can be applied across many industries for communication, data analysis, marketing, content creation needs, and much more. Automating repetitive tasks can be a game-changer for reducing human error, improving consistency, and saving time. The overall goal for many organisations is that AI will work alongside humans, elevating their capabilities rather than replacing them.
How does AI use in the workplace vary between industries?
The use of AI in the workplace can differ significantly between industries, as each sector has their own set of specific needs, capabilities, and challenges. There are some sectors that are not only adopting AI but are at the forefront of new developments by investing in talent and innovation. These industries include IT, finance and banking, marketing and e-commerce, and healthcare.
Traditional industries such as food, textiles, and construction are less likely to be adopting AI within organisations. The workforce of many traditional industries are highly skilled in manual processes which can be difficult to replicate with artificial intelligence machines.
What are the biggest challenges with AI?
There are many concerns around how ethical AI is, as well as the challenges it poses to job displacement across many sectors, particularly creative industries and administrative roles.
The demand for highly skilled AI talent far outweighs the supply of qualified professionals. To address this, many organisations are focusing on upskilling their existing teams, using in-house training, and promoting ongoing professional development.
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This blog post has been adapted from a recent episode of the Management Matters podcast featuring Dr Jen Davies, Director of Studies in Project Management, University of Liverpool Management School; and Serge Patrick-Heselton, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Clixels Group, a digital branding agency. In the episode, they discuss the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace.
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