UK industry workers are losing an estimated two days per week to manual tasks that could be easily automated by artificial intelligence, according to a recent study. Despite efforts to modernise their operations, many employees feel frustrated with the official systems and are turning to 'shadow IT' – using unauthorised software and tools – to get the job done.
The disconnect between executive intentions and operational realities is stark. Industry leaders may believe they're making progress with digital transformation, but frontline workers are struggling to see the benefits. They know AI could revolutionise their tasks, freeing them up for more complex work, but the current systems just aren't delivering.
This reliance on 'shadow IT' not only indicates deep-seated problems with official infrastructure but also poses significant risks. These unapproved tools often fall outside organisational control, potentially exposing companies to security threats and compliance issues that could lead to fines or reputational damage.
From a regulatory standpoint, the implications are clear: the UK's data protection laws are strict, and unsanctioned software may not meet these standards. The impending EU AI Act will only raise the bar further, influencing future legislation and business practices in this area.
However, experts see an opportunity here too. By bridging the gap between vision and reality, UK industries can unlock significant productivity gains, boost competitiveness, and reallocate human resources to higher-value tasks. This requires a more nuanced understanding of employee needs and a collaborative approach to digital strategy development.
A Cogna spokesperson highlighted that the findings underscore the need for organisations to focus on more than just investing in new technologies – they must also ensure these tools are user-friendly, effective, and meet the needs of their workforce.