AI-powered automation enhances job fulfillment for nearly 60% of workers: Report

Executive Summary:
A recent survey conducted by UiPath, an automation software firm, found that 60% of workers believe that AI-powered automation solutions can mitigate burnout and significantly improve job satisfaction. The survey also revealed that 57% of respondents expressed a more positive perception of employers that integrate business automation to support their employees and streamline operations than of employers that do not. The survey, administered in March 2023, was conducted in partnership with Researchscape and garnered online responses from 6,460 executives worldwide.

Key Insights:

1. The emergence of the 'automation generation': The survey revealed that 31% of respondents actively employ business automation solutions in their workplaces. These individuals, known as the 'automation generation,' actively seek technologies that enhance their professional and personal lives, as they strive to avoid feeling dehumanized. They believe they have the resources and support they need (87%) to carry out their responsibilities effectively. Furthermore, 83% of these workers believe that business automation solutions can effectively mitigate burnout and enhance job satisfaction.

2. Workers worldwide are increasingly embracing automation and AI-powered tools to tackle mundane tasks: Respondents expressed their desire for automation to assist in tasks such as data analysis (52%), data input/creation (50%), IT/technical issue resolution (49%), and report generation (48%). When questioned about the sources of their burnout and work fatigue, respondents highlighted working beyond scheduled hours (40%), pressure from managers and leadership (32%), and excessive time dedicated to tactical tasks (27%) as the primary causes.

3. Younger employees are more receptive to new technologies: The survey revealed that younger employees are more receptive to these new technologies. Majorities of Generation Z (69%), Millennials (63%), and Generation X (51%) respondents firmly believe that automation has the potential to enhance their job performance. Among the workers surveyed, 31% of respondents said they were already utilizing business automation solutions (of this group, 39% were Millennials and 42% were Gen Z).

Business Impact:

The survey results provide compelling evidence that incorporating AI-powered automation across the organization is not only a wise investment but also aligns with employees' preferences. With workloads on the rise and employees seeking careers that offer a healthy work-life balance, the integration of AI-powered automation becomes crucial in delivering more fulfilling and positive workplace experiences. Companies that adopt an open and adaptable approach to deploying AI are best positioned to attract skilled employees who can contribute to their success. Business leaders should equip their workers with AI-powered automation tools to thrive in an automation-first world and alleviate resource constraints.