Survey reveals lack of trust in AI in the workplace

"AI offers immense opportunities for the transformation of the economy. However, our survey also shows that executives and their teams don't know exactly how their organization plans to use artificial intelligence in the workplace, nor do they have much confidence in this capability," said Jim Stratton, Chief Technology Officer, Workday. "To close this trust gap, organizations need a comprehensive strategy for AI accountability and governance. Transparent communication and convincing implementation are particularly important, as this is the only way to find the right balance between innovation and trust."

"Artificial intelligence and machine learning will only be successful if their use follows ethical standards. As we gradually introduce AI-based technologies, we pay particular attention to engaging customers and employees and gaining their trust," explains Dan Cohen, Chief Information Officer and Director of Operations, The Amenity Collective. "Our goal is to create a culture that is deeply rooted in our brand understanding, that actively uses artificial intelligence and that enables every member of our organization to support our customers in the best possible way. Workday's commitment to addressing the ambivalent feelings of leaders and employees is absolutely welcome. Together, we can work to close the AI trust gap."

Lack of trust at all levels of the workforce

The responsible introduction and use of artificial intelligence is met with widespread skepticism, especially among employees without management responsibility. Only 62% of managers welcome the introduction of AI in their working environment; just as many are confident that their company will ensure the responsible and trustworthy use of AI. At employee level, on the other hand, only 52 and 55 percent respectively are of this opinion.  

All respondents were also rather skeptical about the way in which artificial intelligence is implemented in the company. 23% of employees doubt that their company puts its own interests above those of the workforce when using AI. This is hardly any different for managers: 21% do not trust that employee interests have top priority. 

Desire for human intervention 

Managers and employees alike want people to have a significant influence on AI-controlled processes. What exactly this should look like is less clear. 70 percent of managers are in favor of developing AI in such a way that humans retain control and can intervene at any time. At the same time, 42% of employees believe that their company does not have a clear idea of which systems should be fully automated and where human intervention is appropriate.

An AI survey conducted on behalf of Workday highlights concerns about the responsible and effective use of artificial intelligence in the company: In it, nearly three-quarters (72 percent) of executives say their organization lacks the necessary skills to fully leverage AI and ML. At 76 percent, the proportion of those who rate their own knowledge of AI and ML applications as needing to be improved is even slightly higher.

Need for smart and transparent AI governance

When asked about a future in which artificial intelligence is part of everyday life, 42% of managers and 36% of employees named framework structures and regulations within the company as the most important building blocks for trustworthy AI.

The lack of transparency regarding AI regulations and guidelines in companies is perceived as problematic. Three out of four employees complain about the lack of cooperation from their employer when it comes to AI regulation; four out of five state that their company has not yet published any guidelines for the responsible use of AI. 

Source: www.workday.com