Leveraging Generative AI for Job Augmentation and Workforce Productivity 2024

GenAI: Example of a more exposed and less exposed job FIGURE 01 Source World Economic Forum, Jobs of Tomorrow: Large Language Models and Jobs , 2023 . 28.7%Software Developers (more exposed) Human Resource Managers (less exposed) — Analyse data to improve operations — Analyse performance of systems or equipment Lower potential for automation or augmentation: — Coordinate with others to resolve problems — Communicate with others about business strategiesHigher potential for augmentation: — Prepare informational or instructional materials — Evaluate the characteristics, usefulness or performance of products or technologiesHigher potential for automation: Higher potential for automation: — Determine resource needs of projects or operations — Manage budgets or finances Lower potential for automation or augmentation: — Interview people to obtain information — Coordinate group, community or public activitiesHigher potential for augmentation: — Explain regulations, policies or procedures — Train others or operational or work procedures43.2% 28% 16.1% 22.2% 61.7% Automation Augmentation Lower potential Non-language tasks Automation and augmentation BOX 1 This report distinguishes between the following definitions: Job automation refers to the use of GenAI to fully perform tasks that were previously performed by humans in a given occupation. 1 Job augmentation refers to the use of GenAI to partially perform tasks in such a way that technology effectively supports or enhances human capabilities through human-machine collaboration. Job augmentation may go beyond technical productivity increase to also enhance job quality and worker well-being. 2 1. Raisch, S. and S. Krakowski, “Artificial Intelligence and Management: The Automation– Augmentation Paradox”, Academy of Management Review , vol. 46, no. 1, 2021. 2. World Economic Forum, Augmented Workforce: Empowering People, Transforming Manufacturing , 2022. GenAI’s potential impact on productivity is one of its most anticipated benefits, particularly because of the slowdown in productivity growth in many economies. 8 Although current forecasts vary widely, it has been suggested that GenAI’s impact on productivity could add trillions to the global economy over the next decade. 9 What sets GenAI apart from previous developments in AI is its ability to widen access to the use of AI and eliminate the barrier of specialized knowledge. GenAI has the potential to contribute to economic and productivity growth by creating efficiencies through freeing up working time spent on lower-value tasks to engage in higher value-added activities. For instance, automating help desk queries may allow customer service workers to focus on more complex issues that increase customer satisfaction. One recent study, surveying more than 100,000 workers from 11 GenAI-exposed occupations, found that workers estimated ChatGPT could reduce working times GenAI and workforce productivity growth 1.2 8