We all know that tech fads come and go (is anyone still talking about the metaverse?) but one that looks like it could be here to stay is artificial intelligence (AI). So, what do we need to be aware of to keep working well in an AI world.

What is AI?

AI is a field of computer science that focuses on creating machines to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. AI systems are designed to learn from data, recognise patterns, and make decisions based on that data.

Examples of AI include learning, problem solving and language and image recognition.

AI needs data to be able to ‘learn’ and this is where it can get complicated. There are some examples where AI is fed a narrow data field and therefore cannot recognise information beyond these fields. Like anything, systems are only as good as the data they are given.

How can AI help me in the workplace?

AI is assisting us every day without us even realising – your built-in smart phone assistants, for example. But let’s look where we can actively seek out AI to help us in the workplace.

Job seeking and recruiting – AI can be a big help in finding your next job. There are different programs out there (ChatGPT being one example) you can use to help write your CV. Equally, employers can use these programs to write job descriptions.

When using these programs, you need to be very considered about what you are asking it to do, make sure your requests are accurate and specific, or you could end up with something useless!

Also, make sure that you are not feeding in information that you wouldn’t be happy with being on an open platform. Any information or requests you are putting in are further adding to the data sources. One tip here is to redact names and sensitive information. This could end up in a GDPR nightmare if you’re not careful!

Never assume – editing and proofreading will be required

While AI can help and save you time and effort, we need to be up on our editing and proofreading skills. As I mentioned, AI is only as good as the data it is given therefore it can easily put in information that is incorrect. This is where we as the human element need to be able to proofread and edit to make sure what we have asked AI to create is fit for purpose. In this respect, AI doesn’t look like it is going to completely take over just yet, but it can be beneficial tool in our working lives.

So, fans of plans, keep looking at future developments, and even embrace them, but keep that human element of sense checking what you ask for!

PS If you want to stimulate your brain outside of the workplace, check out the Philosopher-in-Residence blog – out fortnightly on Thursdays, courtesy of Make Me A Plan’s Principal Planner, Anna Pascoe. Browse the latest edition here: https://www.makemeaplan.com/news/on-winter/