According to Professor Eric Posner of the University of Chicago, the job market will experience “massive” disruption as artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more prominent. Researchers warn that AI could impact millions of jobs, with up to 90% of workers having their jobs impacted and 9% completely displaced by AI in the next ten years. Posner argues that there is no social safety net to protect workers at risk of permanent unemployment and that the emotional toll of not contributing to society could be significant.
According to a survey by Adobe Analytics, more than half of Americans (53%) have tried generative AI. The survey also found that 82% of respondents believe that generative AI enhances their creativity and simplifies their lives. Gen AI is used for personal projects (81%), work (30%), and school (17%), with tasks including research and brainstorming (64%), drafting written content (44%), and creating visuals or presentations (36%). Additionally, 41% of Americans expect brands to use generative AI to enhance customer service, and 58% reported improved online shopping experiences.
The insight we care about is levels of adoption first, and then layering on the potential impact. I’m not an AI doomsayer – I’m naturally an optimist, and I’m aware of that inclination.
Posner observes the risks – and I don’t disagree. I’ll note that this was true before AI. How much of an accelerant is AI going to be? For MSPs and IT services companies, the opportunity is to help customers with their customer service needs. Where will the appropriate places to inject AI be? That’s the area to focus on.