In my previous article, I examined how artificial intelligence (AI) is providing companies with the means to navigate their digitisation journeys more easily. I explored how AI can help automate tasks that were previously performed by humans, its potential to revolutionise IT infrastructure, and how it can help optimise business operations. In this month’s piece, I turn the spotlight on how the future of jobs will adapt to the AI revolution and the ethical considerations of adopting AI in a company’s journey to digitisation.
Certain job roles within IT, such as data entry and basic programming, may be at risk of becoming obsolete due to AI automation. But this opens the door for new roles to emerge, requiring skills in areas such as AI strategy, data analysis, and algorithm development. So, rather than fearing AI as a job-stealing technology, IT professionals can view it as a collaborative tool. AI can assist in complex problem-solving, data analysis, and cybersecurity. It is something that can augment human capabilities, instead of replacing them. By working hand in hand with AI, IT professionals can leverage its power to enhance their productivity and effectiveness.
This means that to stay relevant in the AI-driven IT industry, continuous upskilling and reskilling are essential. IT professionals should seek opportunities to learn and master AI technologies. This can be done through online courses, certifications, or on-the-job training. Adapting to the evolving landscape of technology is crucial for career growth and ensuring one’s employability in the future.
A matter of ethics
Despite the benefits that AI provides, there are also ethical concerns and potential risks that must be addressed for responsible and sustainable digitisation.
AI algorithms must be designed and trained to be fair and unbiased. It is crucial to avoid perpetuating existing social biases or discrimination. Emphasising transparency and accountability in AI development can minimise the potential for unintended consequences and ensure that the benefits of AI are accessible to all.
Because AI relies on vast amounts of data, privacy and security concerns must be addressed. Safeguarding personal data and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations are critical in this regard. AI systems must be built with comprehensive security measures to prevent unauthorised access or misuse of sensitive information.
Bias and discrimination can inadvertently creep into AI systems if they are trained on biased data or not properly monitored. Developers and companies must actively work to identify and rectify such biases to ensure AI systems are fair and unbiased. Regular audits and ongoing monitoring are necessary to avoid perpetuating societal inequalities.
The power of AI
With AI continuing to permeate all parts of the digitisation journey, companies and IT professionals need to embrace its power and potential. By harnessing AI for process automation, supply chain optimisation, and customer engagement, businesses can unlock new levels of efficiency and innovation.
While AI may reshape certain job roles, it also presents new opportunities for IT professionals to adapt and upskill, ensuring their relevance in the AI-driven IT industry. Ethical considerations, including fairness, transparency, and privacy, must be at the forefront of AI development to ensure responsible and sustainable digitisation.
By understanding and navigating the potential risks and rewards of AI, businesses and IT professionals can pave the way for a digital future where AI revolutionises industries while augmenting human capabilities. Let us embrace the power of AI and shape a future where technology works for us, not against us.
