Software firm Atlassian has introduced monthly spending caps for its staff's use of AI tools. Employees in the research and development team will now have access to an "AI wallet" with a monthly limit of between $500 and $2,000, which can be used across four AI products.
This initiative aims to manage the rising costs associated with AI usage, a concern for many tech companies. Atlassian's approach differs from some in the sector that have encouraged extensive AI use, a practice known as "tokenmaxxing," where employees are incentivised to use as much AI technology as possible.
While Atlassian never promoted tokenmaxxing, the company previously cited AI as a factor in cutting 1,600 staff. An internal memo indicates that employees receive notifications as they near their spending limit, and usage is paused once the funds are depleted, though additional funds can be requested.
Research firm Gartner suggests that such wallets can help encourage effective AI use. A June PureProfile survey of senior Australian staff at companies using AI found that 32% had paused or reduced AI deployments due to cost, and 80% were concerned that high usage was being mistaken for productivity gains.