A new research report by Workday reveals the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing human potential in the workplace. According to the findings of the study titled "Elevating Human Potential: The AI Skills Revolution," AI is empowering employees to dedicate more time to high-level tasks, allowing them to focus on activities such as strategic decision-making and problem-solving. An overwhelming 93% of employees who actively use AI reported that it significantly helped them concentrate on more complex and creative aspects of their jobs.

Workday’s research highlights AI’s potential to augment human-specific capabilities, such as empathy, ethical decision-making, and relationship-building. The study stresses that, far from replacing human workers, AI has the capacity to enhance these uniquely human skills, ultimately fostering a more innovative and collaborative work environment.

One of the study’s key findings was the marked difference in AI perceptions between global workers and their managers. While the active users of AI rated its benefits at an average of 4.23 out of 5, those who have yet to adopt AI or plan to do so in the next 12 months were less optimistic, with a rating of 3.89. This points to a clear divide in how the potential of AI is perceived within organizations, particularly regarding its role in elevating the nature of work.

The study also revealed a noteworthy gap between employees and managers in terms of the importance of human interaction in an AI-driven workplace. While 82% of employees believed that human connection is even more crucial in the age of AI, only 65% of managers shared this sentiment. This disparity suggests that while employees recognize the need for emotional and relational skills, managers may be more focused on the efficiency and automation aspects of AI.

Jim Stratton, Workday’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO), emphasized the importance of reframing the conversation around AI. He noted, "Discussions about AI often focus on fear and job loss, but we see AI as a tremendous opportunity. By leveraging AI, we can enhance uniquely human skills such as creativity, empathy, and connection, which will play a key role in creating a successful workplace."

Stratton’s comments reflect Workday’s belief that AI should not be viewed merely as a tool for automation but as a partner in boosting the creative and interpersonal aspects of work that are essential for long-term success. The study indicates that workers are ready and eager to embrace AI's capabilities, with many seeing the technology as an asset rather than a threat.

The findings come at a time when AI continues to rapidly evolve, shaping industries across the globe. Companies looking to harness the power of AI will need to consider how it can complement their workforce, enabling workers to focus on higher-value activities that require creativity, strategic thinking, and human connection.

Workday’s research reinforces the idea that AI can be a transformative force in the workplace, not by replacing jobs, but by reshaping roles and enhancing the human aspects of work that drive organizational success.