The Business Talent Group's (BTG) 2023 Skills Index report revealed some alarming data about artificial intelligence and how it is being used in modern workplaces. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science are still in-demand skills; in fact, demand for data science and machine learning is 100% higher than it was in previous years. And as AI tools keep coming out after chat GPT entered the market in November 2022, this is expected to stay the case for at least the next few years.
A year after ChatGPT's launch, demand is at an all-time high, but 71% of employers still face difficulties because their internal staff lacks the knowledge of how to integrate artificial intelligence—specifically, generative AI—into their non-technical workflows.
The report highlights several key challenges, including a lack of clarity regarding AI regulations, a lack of understanding among senior leadership teams, concerns about data protection and security, being preoccupied with other important matters, and a lack of understanding as to where it can be best used. This presents a major obstacle for the integration of AI, and implies that the World Economic Forum's estimates of generative AI's potential to boost the economy by up to $14 trillion may be hampered by a lack of understanding. Thus, how can this internal knowledge gap be closed?
Learn about AI
The first step is to train key internal stakeholders and business partners on artificial intelligence (AI), its capabilities, and how it can enhance daily workflows, forecasting, analysis, and decision-making. Armed with this knowledge, leaders can make decisions that are best for their organisations.
Take advantage of consultants
Hiring outside AI consultants with verified subject matter expertise in this field, particularly in data protection and security, ethics, and regulations, would be another easy solution for employers. Employers and these consultants could collaborate to offer guidance on how to incorporate AI into work without jeopardising data or trust.
AI change management
A longer-term strategy that might work better for some employers would be to hold an AI focus group or hire someone to manage AI change management. Even though the idea is still relatively new, this kind of change management could work wonders in implementing artificial intelligence department by department until all departments are utilising AI tools to increase productivity.
Before implementing across the entire company, you might want to think about conducting pilot projects to test user experience and acceptance. You can then compile this feedback to determine which tools are most appropriate for you and your organisation's goals. After completing this, you can focus on progressively scaling and getting user feedback.
Training at every step
Educating staff members at all levels—from senior leadership to entry-level and middle managers—in-depth on the use of AI and developing moral standards regarding its potential is another crucial step. Any misunderstandings or concerns about using this technology will be addressed as a result.
Employers should place a high premium on adopting and using AI. When your rivals get the upper hand and pilfer both your talent and your customer base, that will be when it's no longer yours. With perseverance, testing, and training, generative AI has the potential to become the new standard in the workplace, allowing workers to focus on more creative projects and facilitating better mental and physical health through less work.