KUALA LUMPUR: Employees are more comfortable about their communications around the usage of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tool to transcribe meetings, according to a study by solutions provider Avanade.

Prior to the study, 72 per cent of employees felt more cautious about their communications in anticipation of Copilot for M365 being used to transcribe meetings.  

After six weeks, 45 per cent of employees felt less cautious about their communications, representing a significant shift towards more open communication as familiarity with the tool increased.

Almost nine in 10, or 88 per cent, perceived Copilot for M365 aligned with corporate values and over half said it aligned with individual personal values.

"However, the average ratings for the tool's transparency (78 per cent) and accountability (65 per cent) reflect the importance of understanding of the tool's decision-making process and implementing robust governance," it added.

Avanade growth markets area president Bhavya Kapoor said generative AI, like Copilot for M365, is undeniably the next wave of computing in Southeast Asia that fundamentally reshaping the future of work.   

Other than becoming proficient with these technologies, he noted the importance of developing trust and confidence in using them to fully maximise the benefits of AI.

"As we integrate AI into broader business strategies, it's essential to focus on a human-centred AI approach.

"By redefining current job roles and establishing a robust digital ethics framework, we can create a future where technology and people work in harmony to drive business success," he added.

The seven-week study involving 700 global employees at Avanade was carried out to analyse the impact of Copilot for M365 which was undertaken during the early access programme.

Besides communication and trust, the study also investigated the impacts of the generative AI has on four other human metrics in the workplace.

They are creativity, work satisfaction, belongingness and organisational citizenship behaviour.

The study found that Avanade's overall creativity and innovation score increased by 2.0 per cent to 82 per cent since last year.

The approval for embracing new ways of working increased from 80 per cent to 89 per cent, but preference for tasks that required original thinking slightly decline.  

Following the introduction of Copilot for M365, the study found that 85 per cent of people felt a sense of accomplishment from their work.

Eighty per cent of them remained engaged with tasks, indicating that the tool integrated into daily routines without reducing the stimulating aspects of work.

It also found that technological adaptability increased to 86 per cent.

This indicates the tool may facilitate or encourage technical skills and adaptation to new tools while not detracting from the collaborative and helpful spirit of the organisation as altruism and courtesy remained stable at 88 per cent.

Overall findings revealed increased structured creativity, idea sharing and problem solving, but limited improvements to spontaneously generated or original thinking.

https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2024/08/1087539/employees-more-comfortable-generative-ai