Is this the year AI makes a breakthrough?

Nigel Dunn at Jabra looks beyond the buzzwords to explore the degree to which artificial intelligence is becoming entrenched in routine work processes

 

With the rapid adoption of ChatGPT and excitement for generative AI tools like Microsoft Copilot, it is time to consider how deeply AI is embedded in our daily work, and to ask how we can maximise its full potential.

 

Despite its surge in popularity, Jabra’s research shows that more than three quarters of UK office workers still don’t use AI – with nearly half of employees viewing it merely as a buzzword. 

 

With UK leaders braced for more AI investment and placing strong trust in the tech, it’s time for organisations to bridge the disconnect for good. Leaders must avoid AI-washing, understand the true benefits and take employees on the journey, seeking out tech advocates to take AI from buzzword to breakthrough.

 

 

The AI-washing trap

In the UK, 84% of decision-makers express strong interest in AI. However, while many leaders are eager to start using AI tools and be seen as embracing the latest trends, rushed decisions can lead to more problems than solutions. Some organisations may fail to address critical questions about how the technology will integrate into operations and drive tangible benefits for employees before snapping up new shiny solutions. Organisations should avoid AI-washing and jumping on the AI bandwagon.

 

A reactive and rushed approach can lead to a patchwork of solutions, resulting in siloed and less accurate information and ways of working, skills gaps and concern among employees. Adoption of AI tools needs to be thoughtful with careful evaluation of the productivity gains that AI can offer.

 

 

An end to ‘wait and see’

Nearly half (47%) of employees view AI as a trend with limited practical impact, and 83% of decision-makers state they lack a full understanding of AI’s workplace benefits. Without a solid understanding or meaningful AI strategy in place, organisations become stuck in a ‘wait and see’ phase, where discussions continue but actions stagnate.

 

Breaking out of this phase relies on transparent communication and robust training programmes, especially for sceptic employees. In fact, 37% of employees fear AI might replace their jobs – a feeling driven by a lack of clarity on how AI will integrate into processes and benefit employees’ day-to-day. Without this guidance, many workers are left speculating, leading to anxiety and resistance.

 

By showing how AI can be a partner that enhances collaboration and problem solving, and that complements human skills rather than competing with them, employees can understand its role and value in the workplace. A well-defined roadmap for AI integration alongside education and training to demonstrate the benefits will help build trust, to ultimately create a more connected and capable workforce – driving innovation and collaboration at every level.

 

 

Tech advocates driving GenAI

Greater transparency and education on AI will pave the way for acceptance and implementation. Data shows that 71% of AI decision-makers globally are not from the IT department. Therefore, to truly supercharge AI progress, it goes beyond the role of the IT manager. Leaders should look at how to bring employees on board from across the organisation and recruit ‘super users’ to act as advocates for AI adoption.

 

Generative AI is a good place to start. Employees may already be using tools such as Microsoft Copilot to manage daily tasks such as real-time transcription and generating meeting notes and summaries. This is a compelling example of how AI can be integrated seamlessly into everyday tasks, freeing up time to focus on other jobs and boosting productivity.

 

It also shows how work is becoming increasingly voice-driven and the resulting benefits. Voice interaction is four times faster than typing. Combine this with professional headsets with powerful microphones that cancel surrounding noise and enhance voice clarity, and the result is 97% transcription accuracy with AI tools. In comparison, consumer earbuds average only 64% accuracy and can drop as low as 7% in noisy environments, independent testing from Force Technology shows.

 

The productivity gains are clear to see. By identifying the workers who are eager to tap into this potential and are already starting to embrace AI, leaders can enlist and empower these super users to help train and inspire their more sceptical colleagues.

 

As AI continues to evolve, the results and impact will depend on thoughtful integration, transparent communication, and employee empowerment.

 

By avoiding AI-washing, providing training and championing internal advocates, organisations can turn AI into a catalyst for creativity and collaboration. Leaders will need to turn sceptics into advocates, and ensure that employees believe in AI breakthroughs, not buzzwords.

 

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Nigel Dunn is VP EMEA North at Jabra

 

Main image courtesy of iStockPhoto.com and portishead1