How artificial intelligence will transform the way of work is no longer a futuristic question; it’s already happening. From hiring to customer service to supply chain logistics, AI is helping streamline functions as well as improve safety and decision making.
In human resources, a profession that adopted AI early, talent acquisition programs are used to source, recruit, evaluate and communicate with job candidates more efficiently. Additionally, AI is used in areas like performance management and benefits enrollment to better support an employee’s experience.
Freeing Up Human Potential
In finance and accounting, AI can make processing financial transactions more efficient and accurate. Routine repetitive tasks like accounting data entry and invoice processing can be done effectively in a fraction of the time. These time savings free staff resources for higher-value work, such as more effective analysis along with strategic planning and implementation.
More broadly, AI can increase productivity by automating repetitive tasks, giving workers more time to focus on creative aspects of their jobs. For example, AI-powered systems can handle routine data entry or basic customer service inquiries, allowing employees to concentrate on complex problem solving or building customer relationships.
AI can also analyze vast amounts of data to provide workers with valuable insights and recommendations, enabling them to make more informed decisions. This application can be especially useful in areas like inventory management or demand forecasting.
In industries like manufacturing or logistics, AI-powered systems can monitor equipment and identify potential safety hazards, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. For customer service, AI-powered systems can personalize customer interactions, provide faster and more accurate responses, and offer proactive support, leading to improved customer satisfaction.
Automatic technology can also optimize processes, reduce waste and improve efficiency across the supply chain. For example, AI-powered systems can predict demand, optimize delivery routes and automate warehouse operations. By automating tasks and improving efficiency, AI can help businesses reduce costs in areas like labor, inventory and logistics.
Preparing People, Not Replacing Them
AI’s impact varies based on industry and job role, but AI can generally help take routine tasks off workers’ to-do lists through machine learning, which can enable them to focus on innovation and product or service development. Workers also have an opportunity to develop new skills and take on more challenging roles. What is essential is that company leaders invest in training programs to help employees adapt to the workplace’s changing demands.
While some jobs may be displaced, new opportunities will also emerge. The key is for business leaders and employees to embrace these technologies by understanding how to effectively use AI to improve business operations.
Western Governors University offers a certificate in AI skills fundamentals, which is tailored to professionals in various industries who want to harness AI to enhance efficiency, generate data-driven insights and foster innovation within their organizations. Additionally, the WGU School of Business recognizes AI’s transformative power and integrates it throughout its curricula to help prepare students for the future of work.
While AI can streamline many tasks, it should be underscored that automated technologies still have flaws and require close human oversight. Additionally, there remains no substitute for many human-centric skills like critical thinking, judgment, empathy, communication, collaboration and creativity. Industry will therefore need to find a balance between AI tools and skills only humans can provide to meet business needs.
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