AI's Double-Edged Sword

Generative AI adoption is almost double that of personal computers and is outpacing the adoption of the internet as well, according to a study by the National Bureau of Economic Research.  

You may find yourself bombarded by headlines declaring the revolutionary power of large language models to solve global crises or, alternatively, descriptions of AI as the harbinger of the apocalypse. The truth lies somewhere in the middle: There is both incredible potential and some serious challenges when it comes to harnessing the power of AI, and it’s important to understand its strengths and weaknesses. 

The Upside: AI Is Data’s New Best Friend

The term “data democratization” has been in use since at least the early 2000s. We often hear about democracy in the context of politics, and the concept of data democratization is similar. Instead of votes or broader governance, data democratization empowers individuals within an organization by giving them access to and use of data. 

AI is making data more accessible and understandable for everyone, regardless of their technical skills. Here's how:

• Plain language access: Remember struggling to write complex queries? Natural language processing (NLP) is changing the game. You can now ask questions in conversational language and get the answers you need. Think of it like having a conversation with your data. 
• Automated data extraction: Data preparation can be a huge bottleneck. Data capture and processing tools, while helpful, often still require significant manual cleanup. New AI-powered solutions automate metadata extraction, getting structured and unstructured data ready for use and analysis much faster.
• Personalized insights: AI can tailor data insights to specific users. Imagine a software user and a programmer both asking, “How do I search for a folder by name?” AI can provide relevant answers based on their roles and needs.

The Downside: Digital Parrots and Hidden Dangers

Generative AI is impressive and can be a real time-saver, but it also has its limitations. Sometimes, it acts like a digital parrot: It can mimic human writing and function but lack true understanding and common sense. 

Here are some potential pitfalls:

• Garbage in, garbage out: AI models are only as good as the data they're trained on. Incomplete or inaccurate data leads to unreliable results. This highlights the importance of data governance and quality control.
• Security risks: Democratizing data means more people have access, which increases the challenge of maintaining security and privacy. Conversational AI agents, in particular, can expand an organization's attack surface, making it easier for attackers to extract sensitive data.
• The hallucination problem: AI can handle complicated queries with ease, yet sometimes it stumbles on simple questions, generating factually incorrect or nonsensical information. This suggests a lack of real-world understanding.

The Takeaway: Use Responsibly — and Wisely

AI is a powerful tool that is already transforming the workplace, but it's just one tool in your toolbox. Despite the rapid evolution of generative AI, the technology can still hallucinate and make mistakes. 

Here is where we can learn a lesson from AI: 

• AI literacy: Just like our AI agent counterparts, we must embrace continuous learning. Build knowledge about the fundamentals of AI and stay up to date on the latest advancements, capabilities and limitations. 
• Skill development: Proficiency in using AI tools relevant to your field will be table stakes. Additionally, focus on the human skills that can complement your AI knowledge, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, emotional intelligence and communication. 
• Flexibility is key: AI will automate many routine tasks, which will free up time to focus on strategic work. Discover what that reality looks like for you now, so you will be prepared to take on a new direction if needed.

The workplace of the future involves AI working alongside humans to augment our capabilities, rather than replace us. Don't blindly trust it. It’s critical to understand both its immense potential and its shortcomings, as well as what we can do to ensure a harmonious co-existence.  

Editor's Note: Read more thoughts on how to get the most out of AI:

• You Have to Know What AI You Have — The first step in creating a strong AI governance strategy is having a clear understanding of where and how AI is being used in your organization.
• Round Pegs and Square Holes: Why AI Adoption Requires a Focus on Culture — AI’s impact isn't inherent in the technology itself but in how it is deployed. Will it be a means to cut corners, or a catalyst for growth and innovation?
• Who's Responsible for Responsible AI? — Responsible AI frameworks will inevitably evolve, but you can start building the foundation today that sets your business — and employees — up for success.

Learn how you can join our contributor community.