AI to transform the workplace, reducing frustrations

Artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to change the workplace significantly in the next decade by alleviating many of the frustrations currently experienced by knowledge workers.

Dr. Molly Sands, Head of the Teamwork Lab at Atlassian, elaborated on the transformative role AI is set to play. "The workplace has always evolved with technology, but AI isn't just another step forward – it's a leap. AI 'agents' are stepping in as the ultimate collaborative assistants that can help you write emails and reports, organize schedules, and summarize meetings," she stated.

The recent AI Collaboration Report by Atlassian, which surveyed 5,000 global knowledge workers, revealed notable benefits of AI adoption. Knowledge workers employing advanced AI tools are producing higher quality work, are perceived as more innovative, and manage to save twice as much time as those who are less advanced in AI usage.

Dr. Sands highlighted five workplace frustrations AI is expected to eradicate, the first of which is the difficulty of starting new tasks, or what she describes as the "Fear of Getting Started (FOGS)." "Collaborative AI provides a genuine remedy for the FOGS, acting as the ultimate partner to help you get your brain moving," she explained.

Next, AI is seen as a solution to low motivation caused by repetitive tasks. By automating these tasks, AI enables workers to focus on more strategic work. "Repetitive tasks are the enemy of motivation. Spending hours on routine, mundane work not only drains your energy but also leaves you feeling disengaged and uninspired," she said.

Another issue AI aims to tackle is unhealthy work habits, like eating lunch at one's desk due to time constraints. The report indicates that mature AI collaborators in India can save up to 127 minutes daily, which can be redirected towards more balanced work-life practices.

Decision fatigue is another concern, for which AI solutions are being developed to aid data-driven decision-making. "AI provides data-driven recommendations, helping workers analyze information, weigh options, and make informed choices faster," Dr. Sands noted.

Finally, AI's role extends beyond mundane tasks by empowering employees to expand their skill sets and take on more complex work. "AI doesn't just speed up mundane tasks; it empowers you to take on more challenging and complex work by expanding your skillsets and lowering the barriers to learning," Sands added.

Overall, Atlassian's research illustrates that strong AI collaborators are perceived as more innovative, with enhanced decision-making abilities. Dr. Sands summarised, "The best work over the next ten years will come from teams and organisations that embrace AI as a collaborator, not just a utility."