Paul Wooldridge, Digital Workplace Customer Service Delivery Lead For EMEA West at SoftwareOne UK
In a world where change is constant and the future of work is ever evolving, one technological advancement stands out among the rest: Artificial Intelligence. With 77% of businesses currently using or exploring the use of AI, its emergence has sparked both fear and anticipation in the workplace. From advancements in cloud computing to virtual desktop networks, technology has already transformed the way we work. However, AI’s potential impact is causing substantial shockwaves compared to other developments. So, what exactly are the reasons behind this potential mass migration to AI?
AI’s capabilities are exceptional.
A mere decade ago, machines could hardly provide reliable language or image recognition. Yet, if we look at the present day, machines have not only learned but also surpassed humans in many vital tasks. It’s evident that, year after year, AI continues to push the boundaries of what we once thought was impossible for machines to achieve.
To give a glimpse into the current capabilities of AI, the technology now excels in a multitude of areas. These include natural language generation, speech recognition, virtual agents, decision management, biometrics processing, machine learning, robotic process automation, peer-to-peer networking, deep learning, and even optimisation of hardware capabilities.
Beyond these competencies, one of AI’s most significant capabilities is its ability to function as an application within and on other technologies, such as the cloud. This particular capability dramatically alters the requirements of various workplaces, depending on their sector. In the past, managing and monitoring a specific type of cloud data might have necessitated a dedicated tech expert. However, that’s no longer the case! AI has transformed this process, performing these tasks more cost-efficiently and accurately than humans ever could.
So, with AI capable of aiding employees in many tasks and, in some cases, replacing employees, how will the two coincide with each other?
The two will somewhat become one in a contactless workplace.
In years gone by, the workplace was somewhat predictable, with specific roles that had nothing to do with technology for the majority of employees. However, with continuous advancements in technology like AI, it is becoming inevitable that employees now and, in the future, will have to interact with AI. This collaboration between humans and AI will become increasingly prominent, even if it’s not in a physical office.
As a result, the future of the workplace and its necessities will shift decision-makers’ focus towards employees having some form of IT skills. In fact, studies have already shown that 3 out of 4 IT decision-makers report an IT skill gap. This means that employees who previously didn’t need to monitor technology like AI may now be required to do so. Roles will increasingly reverse, with AI taking on jobs that were once done by employees.
With these changes, efficiency will improve, and error rates will decrease over time. Depending on the speed at which advancements occur, the number of hands-on roles employees occupy may decrease. Nevertheless, employees will still be essential in the future workplace, as they will oversee and provide the human interactions and problem-solving that will always be needed.
AI is here to stay, and we must adapt.
As AI continues to develop, it will inevitably be compatible with other technologies, including those used in everyday workplace settings. These technologies are constantly adapting and restructuring to incorporate more AI technology, with cloud computing leading the way. Surveys have shown that 61% of businesses in the finance sector already use the cloud, and now they are preparing to fully embrace AI. Leading cloud providers such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are even making changes to their infrastructure to accommodate larger-scale AI integration.
Cloud computing, when used effectively and with proper planning, offers numerous benefits such as scalability, flexibility, data security, and analysis. In a world where digital transformation and efficient use of data are becoming essential for workplace operations, the use of AI is bound to become even more prominent.
Not only is artificial intelligence transforming the internal workings of workplaces, but it is also having an impact externally. Both current employees and potential hires now expect their employers to be up to date with the technology they use. AI is no longer just a game-changing technology for the benefit of employees; it is also a way to attract talented individuals to organisations.
Workplaces must prepare to embrace AI on a larger scale or risk being left behind.
