Employers struggling to keep pace with AI adoption

While the use of AI tools in the workplace is rapidly increasing, many organisations are lagging in providing guidance and training in the use of these technologies, according to  new survey commissioned by Ricoh Europe. This governance gap comes amidst growing interest within companies to implement automation solutions. The poll of 6,000 workers across Europe, conducted by Opinium, suggests there is a gap between workers’ use of emerging technologies and organisations’ efforts to support and manage that usage.

The research found that 48 percent of European employees use AI tools, such as Chat GPT, with 18 percent of these respondents using it once or more a day. However, the adoption of AI is outpacing employers’ implementation of formal policies and procedures. Only one in six (16 percent) companies have offered training on how to utilise AI tools. Without proper guidance on how to harness the technology, businesses could miss out on the purported productivity and business benefits. Further issues are more likely to arise related to the incorrect or unintended use of Gen-AI, such as the spread of misinformation.

Similarly, a mere 18 percent of businesses have implemented risk management measures to ensure the safe and transparent use of AI – despite associated copyright and privacy risks. Clear company guidelines, along with dedicated training, is needed to help employees use tools safely, in a way that delivers tangible business value.

With the right automation tools and technology in place, 69 percent of European employees believe they would deliver more value to their organisation. However, determining the right approach takes careful evaluation, as 67 percent agree they need to learn more about the benefits of these automation tools and technologies before using them at work. Investing in training and guidance will provide the clarity needed to engage employees in the benefits and opportunities that these new technologies create.