In a significant development, IBM CEO Arvind Krishna has announced that approximately 30% of the company’s non-customer-facing positions could be replaced by artificial intelligence (AI) within the next five years. As a result, IBM plans to put a temporary hold on hiring for “back-office” roles that can be potentially automated by AI technology.
Krishna specifically mentioned departments such as human resources and accounting as the areas most likely to be impacted by AI automation. He expressed his belief that up to 30% of these positions could be replaced by AI systems over the course of the next five years.
This news comes at a time when a recent study found that 62% of Americans anticipate a significant impact on workers due to the implementation of AI in the workplace within the next two decades. Consequently, many employees are feeling apprehensive and uncertain about their future job prospects.
While some tech-savvy employees may feel more secure about their employment prospects in the age of AI, others are concerned about potential job displacement. However, experts argue that AI should not be viewed as an adversary but rather as a tool that can enhance human capabilities.
The introduction of AI automation in the workplace is a complex and evolving issue. While it brings the potential for increased efficiency and productivity, it also raises concerns about the impact on employment. As IBM takes steps towards AI integration, the industry will closely observe the outcomes and assess the implications for the future of work.
