The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Workers’ Skills: Upskilling and Reskilling in Organisations

Abstract

Aim/Purpose This paper aims to investigate the recent developments in research and practice on the transformation of professional skills by artificial intelligence (AI) and to identify solutions to the challenges that arise.

Background The implementation of AI in various organisational sectors has the potential to automate tasks that are currently performed by humans or to reduce cognitive workload. While this can lead to increased productivity and efficiency, these rapid changes have significant implications for organisations and workers, as AI can also be perceived as leading to job losses. Successfully adapting to this transformation will lead companies and institutions to new working and organisational models, which requires implementing measures and strategies to upskill or reskill workers. Organisations, therefore, face considerable challenges such as guiding employees towards the change process, dealing with the cost of training, and ensuring fairness and inclusion posed by age, gender, and cultural diversity.

Methodology A narrative review has been conducted to analyse research and practice on the impact of AI on human skills in organisations.

Contribution This work contributes to the body of knowledge by examining recent trends in research and practice on how AI will transform professional skills and workplaces, highlighting the crucial role played by transversal skills and identifying strategies that can support organisations and guide workers toward the upskilling and reskilling challenges.

Findings This work found that introducing AI in organisations combines many organisational strategies simultaneously. First, it is critical to map the transversal skills needed by workers to mitigate the current skills gap within the workplace. Secondly, organisations can help workers identify the skills required for AI adoption, improve current skills, and develop new skills. In addition, the findings show that companies need to implement processes to support workers by providing ad hoc training and development opportunities to ensure that workers’ attitudes and mental models towards AI are open and ready for the changing labour market and its related challenges.

Recommendation for Researchers AI is a complex and multifaceted field that encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including computer science, mathematics, engineering, and behavioural and social sciences. Researchers should take a transdisciplinary approach to enable the integration of knowledge and perspectives from different fields that are essential to understanding the full range of implications and applications of AI.

Future Research Further research is needed to understand the impact of AI on human skills and the role of soft skills in the adoption of AI in organisations. Future studies should also consider the challenges presented by Industry 5.0, which is likely to involve the integration of new technologies and automation on an even greater scale.