The 40% Boost: Embracing GenAI in the Workplace

Can GenAI Really Make Us 40% More Efficient?

A recent Harvard study highlighted that the use of GenAI tools can enhance our capabilities by up to 40%. This impressive figure is only set to grow. But does that mean we can work 40% less? Not quite.

When I first read the Harvard study, I thought, "This will be the next arms race." If I master these tools before my competitors, I'll be 40% ahead. It reminds me of the 2023 F1 world championship where Max Verstappen and Red Bull were leagues ahead.

Just like weapons need testing, GenAI tools must be used and refined before we fully understand their potential and pitfalls. In the early years of nuclear testing, some feared the atomic bomb could ignite the Earth's atmosphere. Similarly, the LHC raised concerns about creating a black hole. Neither of those happened in the end, same with GenAI and it’s fears.

Once these tools are perfected, they might fall into the wrong hands. We’ve seen the rise of deep fake scams and the proliferation of fake news. So no, using AI won’t necessarily mean working less. In fact, you might find yourself working more to keep up or, worse, dodging the fallout of malicious AI applications.

This article isn't about fearmongering or lamenting "AI is going to take our jobs!" It's about accepting and leveraging technological change. For the past 20 years, technology has continually reshaped our lives and careers. A second Harvard study found that over 60% of jobs in 2018 were in roles that didn’t exist in 1940. AI will likely accelerate this trend.

There are incredible opportunities to use these tools for positive change, perhaps even to learn new skills. The key is to use AI tools properly and integrate them into your workflow effectively.

I often encounter two groups: those against AI and those afraid of it. The latter group isn’t convinced AI will end humanity but are hesitant to adopt it, fearing they'll be seen as frauds. Misusing GenAI can backfire, making it obvious you relied on AI without understanding it. However, with time and practice, you can achieve the 40% efficiency boost highlighted in the research.

I will write in the future my collection of tips on how to use all those mainstream AI tools effectively. Much can be done and automated through AI without losing quality, if used properly.

Embracing AI isn’t about working less; it’s about working smarter. What steps are you taking to integrate GenAI into your work?