The Future of Work in the Age of AI
The introduction of large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT promises to transform how we work, just as remote work and hybrid work models did in recent years. While the implications are not yet fully clear, research synthesized in a recent Microsoft report provides early evidence and insights into how LLMs may impact productivity, jobs, and organizations.
Early productivity experiments show substantial time-savings from using LLMs for common information work tasks like writing, though potential declines in output quality require vigilance. Less experienced workers seem to benefit more, aligning with hypotheses that LLMs can help disseminate institutional knowledge. However, productivity gains likely depend on efficient integration into workflows and appropriate reliance on outputs.
As LLMs permeate work, human skills may shift from search and content production to critical analysis and integration. People will likely spend more time planning, evaluating, editing and communicating around LLM-generated content. Soft skills like emotional intelligence will remain uniquely human.
Organizations introducing LLM systems face parallel adoption and perception issues as with past technologies. Effectiveness depends on contextual fit and support for changing job functions, not just the technology itself. Firms able to spur innovation creating net new valuable tasks and output stand to benefit most.
More broadly, the future of work remains a choice, not destiny. Proactively addressing disparities, fostering beneficial innovation, expanding access, and incentivizing data sharing are all within our control. Applying scientific principles of hypothesis testing and knowledge sharing can help leaders, scientists and citizens work together to shape how AI transforms work for the better.
The key insight is that while AI will significantly impact work, whether that is largely positive or negative depends greatly on human actions. Technological transformation may be inevitable, but an equitable, empowering future of work is achievable if we thoughtfully guide development and adoption. Organizations and governments must invest now in research, policies and initiatives that will allow humans and AI to productively co-evolve.
Here are few of insights and actions for us to adapt to the future of work with AI:
1. Develop critical thinking skills to effectively evaluate and integrate AI-generated content into workflows. Spend time planning, analyzing, summarizing, and editing.
2. Improve communication skills for clarifying needs to AI systems (prompting) and conveying AI outputs to stakeholders. Focus on contextualizing and grounding information.
3. Seek training on interacting with AI, such as constructing effective prompts and productively negotiating tradeoffs like speed vs quality. Build knowledge to create appropriate reliance.
4. Remain flexible and open to new augmentation opportunities. Innovation depends on utilizing technology-enabled gains to provide new value. Look for problems AI can help solve.
5. Advocate for policies, norms and tools that distribute benefits broadly, support effective adoption, address emerging issues proactively, and keep decisions human-centered. Voice priorities through corporate programs and civic participation.
The key is recognizing this transformation requires co-evolution. By developing complementary capabilities and helping shape development, humans can thrive alongside increasingly capable AI.
Source: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/publication/microsoft-new-future-of-work-report-2023/
Altaf Rehmani is a Technology Innovator, helped various businesses with Digital transformation projects, Agile Evangelist and a champion of applying technology to enable business growth. He lives in Hong Kong and can be reached via email or twitter. Please leave your feedback and a clap if you have liked this article.
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