Many companies with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) are transitioning beyond mere infatuation with Generative AI and are now actively implementing changes to facilitate workplace adoption, according to a recent report from Deloitte’s AI Institute.
Based on a survey of nearly 2,000 leaders ranging from directors to C-suite executives directly involved in AI initiatives within their organizations, the report reveals that three-quarters of these leaders are planning to adjust their talent strategies within the next two years due to Generative AI. These adjustments primarily revolve around optimizing work processes and providing training for upskilling or reskilling employees.
Deborshi Dutt, the artificial intelligence strategic growth offering lead and principal at Deloitte Consulting LLP, emphasized the importance of simultaneously scaling up and skilling up as organizations progress from exploring possibilities to implementing practical applications of Generative AI. He highlighted the significance of hiring new talent and investing in workforce training, emphasizing the value of both technical expertise and human-centered skills in successful deployment.
However, the report also indicates that there is still room for improvement in talent readiness for Generative AI adoption. Only 37% of respondents expressed confidence in their organizations’ preparedness to address talent-related concerns in the context of Generative AI adoption. Nevertheless, 39% of organizations are planning to increase headcount in the next 12 months to support Generative AI initiatives.
Efficiency and productivity are cited as the most anticipated benefits of Generative AI adoption, although many organizations have yet to fully realize these benefits. Trust remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption, with only 36% of leaders indicating that they measure worker trust and engagement as part of their talent strategy.
Furthermore, organizational restructuring is underway in response to AI adoption, with significant investments in AI talent, change management strategies, and employee communication plans being made by company leaders.
In light of these changes, talent leaders are facing uncertainty in 2024 due to AI and work design alterations, according to a Mercer report. Approximately 40% of HR professionals have AI workflows on their agenda and intend to prioritize work redesign to incorporate AI and automation.
While there is a notable investment in AI across many companies, half of them remain uncertain about the business impact and implementation. Barriers to AI adoption include a lack of organizational expertise, employee skepticism, and regulatory challenges, as highlighted in an Orgvue report.