As investment in and rollout of artificial intelligence (AI) tools increase, the technology’s benefits for work productivity and innovation are becoming clear. So, too, are its risks and challenges — a report identifies those relating to trust, regulation, governance, and training, which require companies’ careful attention.
The University of Melbourne and KPMG’s report, Trust, Attitudes and Use of Artificial Intelligence, captured the views of 48,000 people in 47 countries. On four measures, the research found that, compared with those in advanced economies, people generally in emerging economies report higher regular use of AI technology (80% v 58%), training (50% v 32%), knowledge (64% v 46%), and effective use (74% v 51%). Also, the research revealed, employee adoption in the workplace in emerging economies is leading the way, with 72% using AI regularly compared with 49% in advanced economies.
A knowledge gap is also becoming apparent, the report says. Overall, only two in five people say they have had any AI-related training or education, and 48% say they have only limited knowledge about AI, yet three in five report using AI effectively. Low barriers to use and easy interfaces are driving this confidence, the report suggests.
In the workplace, more specifically, the report points to a similar pattern: 58% of employees report intentionally using AI tools and systems regularly in their work. Yet less than half (47%) of employees report any form of training or education in AI or related fields. Only 46% of workers say they have at least a moderate level of AI knowledge, and only 51% believe they can use AI effectively.
To derive maximum benefit from AI tools, the training challenge for employers, employees, and society itself could not be clearer.
To comment on this article or to suggest an idea for another article, contact Oliver Rowe at Oliver.Rowe@aicpa-cima.com.
