A groundbreaking study conducted by the Institute for Work thinktank has shed light on the effects of new technologies, including trackers, robots, and AI-based software, on people’s quality of life in the workplace. The study, based on a survey of over 6,000 individuals, examined the impact of four categories of technologies that are increasingly becoming prevalent across industries.
The study revealed that workers who were exposed to technologies falling within three of these categories – AI and machine learning-based software, wearable trackers for surveillance, and robotics – generally experienced a decline in their health and wellbeing. On the other hand, the use of more established information and communication technologies (ICTs) such as laptops, tablets, and instant messaging had a more positive effect on wellbeing.
Rather than directly investigating the causes, the authors of the study highlighted that their findings align with previous research suggesting that these technologies may contribute to job insecurity, increased workload, routinization, loss of work significance, disempowerment, and a reduction in autonomy, all of which negatively impact employee wellbeing.
Last year, economists at Goldman Sachs speculated that around 300 million jobs worldwide could become automated by 2030, resulting in significant changes and potential disruptions in the workforce. Dr. Magdalena Soffia, the lead author of the study, emphasized that the problem lies not in the technologies themselves but in how they are adopted and integrated into the workplace.
“We don’t want to claim that there is some sort of determinism in what technology causes, in terms of wellbeing. We say it really depends on the context: on lots of structural factors, on environmental conditions, how it is designed and how it is deployed. So lots of human decisions,” Dr. Soffia explained.
To assess quality of life, the researchers used a well-established measure called EuroQoL EQ-5D-3L, which considers factors such as mobility, mental health, and pain levels. This multidimensional approach aimed to provide a nuanced understanding of the impact of these technologies on workers’ wellbeing.
Regarding the positive effects observed with ICTs, Dr. Soffia suggested that these technologies streamline work processes, making them more efficient and ultimately providing individuals with a sense of achievement.
In direct contrast, the study’s findings regarding trackers and surveillance technologies align with recent concerns raised by trade unions and activists regarding the negative implications of constant monitoring on workers’ performance and overall wellbeing. Mary Towers, the TUC’s lead on AI, expressed her concerns, stating that without proper regulation, AI could turn the workplace into an oppressive and unhealthy environment.
However, she also acknowledged the potential benefits of AI if accompanied by strong regulations: “If we put the proper guardrails in place, AI can be harnessed to genuinely enhance productivity and improve working lives.”
The recently published report is part of the Pissarides Review into the Future of Work and Wellbeing, a collaborative effort between the IFW, Warwick Business School, and Imperial College London. Prof Sir Christopher Pissarides, the renowned economist overseeing the review, emphasized the importance of understanding how these technologies impact individuals’ quality of life as they continue to permeate various aspects of our working lives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What were the findings of the study on the impact of new technologies in the workplace?
- Q: What factors were considered when assessing quality of life?
- Q: Could AI lead to job loss in the future?
- Q: Are the technologies themselves the problem?
- Q: What are the concerns related to constant monitoring through trackers and surveillance technologies?
- Q: What possibilities are there for AI to enhance productivity and improve working lives?
A: The study found that exposure to technologies such as AI-based software, wearable trackers, and robotics had a negative effect on workers’ health and wellbeing. By contrast, the use of established information and communication technologies (ICTs) had a more positive influence.
A: The study employed the EuroQoL EQ-5D-3L measure, which evaluates factors such as mobility, mental health, and pain levels to provide a more comprehensive understanding of individuals’ overall wellbeing.
A: Economists have speculated that approximately 300 million jobs worldwide could be automated by 2030, potentially causing major workforce transformations. However, the study did not directly address the issue of job loss.
A: The study suggests that the problem lies not in the technologies themselves, but rather in how they are adopted and integrated into the workplace. Factors such as structural conditions, design, and deployment play significant roles in determining their impact on wellbeing.
A: The study’s findings echo concerns raised by trade unions and activists, highlighting the potentially negative impact of constant monitoring on workers’ performance and overall wellbeing, leading to an oppressive work environment.
A: The TUC’s lead on AI believes that with robust regulations in place, AI can be effectively harnessed to enhance productivity and improve employees’ quality of life in the workplace. Implementing proper safeguards is crucial to leveraging the potential benefits of AI.
– AI: Artificial Intelligence, refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, and decision-making.
– ICTs: Information and Communication Technologies, refers to technologies that are used to transmit, store, and process information. Examples include computers, telecommunications devices, and software.
– EuroQoL EQ-5D-3L: A well-established measure used to assess an individual’s quality of life. It considers various factors such as mobility, mental health, and pain levels.
– Trackers: Refers to wearable devices that monitor and collect data on an individual’s activities, such as heart rate and physical movements.
– Robotics: The technology and engineering involved in designing, manufacturing, and operating robots. Robots are machines programmed to perform tasks autonomously or assist humans in various activities.
– Job insecurity: Refers to the concern or fear of losing one’s job due to factors such as technological advancements, economic instability, or organizational changes.
– Routinization: The process of turning tasks or activities into routine, standardized procedures.
– Disempowerment: The feeling of being deprived of power or authority, often resulting from limitations or restrictions in decision-making and control over one’s work.