We still haven't figured out how to use AI to increase productivity for most tasks.https://t.co/j6AUqnFrBQ
— Noah Smith ????? (@Noahpinion) July 28, 2024
The CrowdStrike software update on July 25th, 2024 caused widespread computer outages in offices, hospitals, and airports around the world. White-collar workers found themselves helpless, staring at blank screens. They suddenly realized how much they depend on technology to do their jobs.
In this moment of crisis, IT personnel stepped up as the unsung heroes. They came to the rescue of their stranded colleagues and travelers. Their work that day was stressful but also filled with purpose.
When companies find that they can make a task 1,000 times cheaper through technology like AI, their instinct is not always to revel in the cost savings. They're likely to invest in executing that task 10,000 more times.
– Andrew Ng @AndrewYNg https://t.co/Il6tHGGqOk pic.twitter.com/34hzNBYgwx— Mårten Mickos (@martenmickos) July 28, 2024
This incident shows a bigger truth about how workplaces are changing. Robots and artificial intelligence (AI) are being used for more everyday tasks. This may not eliminate jobs completely, but it could change the nature of work a lot.
"…machines can make employees feel differently about their work. So it matters whether new technologies are introduced in collaboration with employees or imposed from above, and whether they enhance or sap their sense of competence." https://t.co/4OBQX37rBi
— Nicholas Diakopoulos (@ndiakopoulos) July 28, 2024
As machines take over routine tasks, human workers are left with more complex responsibilities. But this technological shift also brings more stress. It requires workers to have a wider range of skills.
???! Incredibly damning new study on GenAI from Upwork, via @baldurbjarnason:
“Nearly half (47%) of workers using AI say they have no idea how to achieve the productivity gains their employers expect. Over three in four (77%) say AI tools have decreased their productivity… pic.twitter.com/OCRxgQpBiJ
— Gary Marcus (@GaryMarcus) July 29, 2024
When CrowdStrike’s update failed, the importance of IT and support roles became clear. These often overlooked workers proved to be essential in keeping things running. It was a perfect example of how crises can show the true value of human adaptability and problem-solving.
CrowdStrike update chaos and human adaptability
As AI keeps advancing, many worry it will replace human workers. But the reality is more complicated.
Machines are great at specific tasks. However, human intuition, empathy, and critical thinking are still needed to handle unexpected challenges. The workplace of the future will likely need a good mix of human ingenuity and machine efficiency.
Humans will need to provide oversight, creativity, and care in complex situations where AI falls short. This combined approach has its difficulties. Workers must adapt to new technologies and continuously update their skills to stay relevant.
Relying on highly specialized human roles may also increase job-related stress. In the long run, the key is finding the right balance to benefit from AI. Providing proper training and support to workers will be crucial.
This will help ensure they can thrive alongside their digital co-workers. Employers must recognize the value that human workers bring beyond just doing tasks. They need to invest in their human capital.
While machines might not take your job completely, they could make it more complex and stressful at times. Navigating this change thoughtfully is essential to keep a motivated and resilient workforce.
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