How does artificial intelligence affect the workplace? More specifically, how does AI-enabled software affect productivity? Let’s take a look at 7 key ways it’s impacting workers across various industries and job functions. You might be surprised at what you find! #1 and #2 on our list of the top 7 ways AI-enabled software boosts productivity may just change your outlook on what the future holds for artificial intelligence in the workplace!

1) Automated Algorithms
A number of workforce management systems and employee monitoring software options use algorithms to schedule tasks for employees. This has a number of benefits, including improving productivity and reducing errors. For example, if an algorithm detects that an employee tends to take on more than they can handle, it will automatically reschedule some tasks so they have time to complete them all before deadlines.

2) Natural Language Processing
Natural language processing (NLP) is a machine learning method that enables computers to learn, identify, and interpret human languages. NLP helps machines process human language data for increased productivity and workplace efficiency. One area where NLP has proven effective is in employee monitoring software—software that utilizes AI to help companies manage their workforce. By monitoring everything from emails to social media messages, employers can gain insight into everything from employee engagement to recruitment trends.

3) Machine Learning
There are many companies that have already adopted workforce management systems and employee monitoring software to increase efficiency and boost productivity. In fact, Gartner predicts that 30% of all tasks done by humans will be replaced by smart machines like machine learning algorithms. This includes simple job titles like cleaning crews, drivers, retail sales associates, inventory managers and more. We’re quickly approaching a future where people aren’t needed for most traditional forms of employment.

4) Virtual Assistants
Do you find that sometimes it’s just easier to do a task yourself than spend hours trying to figure out how a piece of software works? The workforce management systems we discussed above can be set up so they work around your schedule, allowing you to delegate mundane tasks—even email responses!—to a virtual assistant. These assistants are easily trained to make good decisions and will save you time and energy.

5) Chatbots
There’s a growing range of chatbots available to streamline communication and help out with repetitive or tedious tasks. Virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, Cortana, and Google Assistant are now commonplace as well, which can handle things like managing your calendar and setting reminders. The combination of automated messaging software and voice assistants can allow you to handle far more requests on your own than you could ever have before.

6) Location-Based Services
Companies are increasingly using geolocation technology to learn where their employees are and how they’re spending their time. For example, Starbucks uses its app to tell workers if there’s a line at a nearby store; when they get there, it sends them a list of orders to fill. Not only does it help employees be more efficient (thereby increasing productivity), but it helps companies save money on labor costs, according to some experts.

7) Augmented Reality Tools
Augmented reality (AR) technology can help train new employees, allow for better information sharing, and improve efficiency. AR applications are now ubiquitous and are often used for marketing and training. For example, retailers can create apps that show customers how a product would look in their home before they buy it. This way, buyers don’t have to rely on their imagination or a salesperson to make an informed decision about purchases.

Conclusion
We’ve only just begun to scratch the surface when it comes to artificial intelligence, but already we can see how it’s transforming industries and workplaces across America. From automatic speech recognition software that transcribes phone calls for customer service agents to smart factories where robots are now a common fixture, AI has made its way into every nook and cranny of our working lives. The rise of AI has given us incredible tools that can make us more productive—and these tools will only continue to get better with time.

SOURCE: 7 Ways Artificial Intelligence is Changing the Workplace