How does artificial intelligence fit into the workplace?
How does artificial intelligence fit into the workplace?What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the term Artificial Intelligence? Some people envision a dystopian future where workers have been replaced by robots. The reality, at least for the time being, is much different.
The term “Artificial Intelligence” is a blanket term that refers to the broad science of mimicking human abilities. The appropriate term for the type of AI that is used to perform work-related tasks is Machine Learning.
What is Machine Learning?
Machine Learning refers to a specific field of Artificial intelligence that allows computer systems to “learn” by using algorithms instead of being programmed to do specific functions. Machine Learning has been around for quite some time now, but has just recently taken off due to advances in computing technologies.
This type of technology is already relatively common, and you probably don’t even notice it in everyday life. For example: if you browse Google for a new car one evening, you may start to see ads for cars for sale on almost every site you visit the next day! This is because advertisers use software that uses Machine Learning concepts to customize the ads you see.
Will Artificial Intelligence Replace Me in the Workplace?
Being replaced by a computer in the workplace is a growing concern for many workers. However, Artificial Intelligence technologies will mostly eliminate tasks, not jobs. AI is great for replacing menial, repetitive tasks.
When it comes to critical thinking and skilled work, AI has a long way to go. If you have a career in driving/transportation, manufacturing or general labor, or the culinary field, you may want to start thinking about branching out your skill set. There have been many advances in these fields, such as autonomous vehicles and burger-flipping robots.
As mentioned before, even the culinary field may no longer be an option for human workers. Miso Robotics has been developing an “autonomous robotic kitchen assistant” named Flippy. Flippy is able to learn from its’ surrounding and develop new skills over time. Most importantly (for business owners), Flippy doesn’t require a paycheck.
It is easy to get discouraged after hearing about the recent advancements in the AI field. However, there is no need to lose sleep over the threat of being replaced by a robotic counterpart for the time being. The great inventions of the past didn’t force the workforce into unemployment either. On the contrary, with new technology comes new opportunity.
(Image Source: iCLIPART)
