KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 6: A recent study by Avanade, a global provider of digital, cloud and artificial intelligence advisory services across the Microsoft ecosystem, reveals that the workplace impact and fears on Generative AI had eased due to increased familiarity.
The study was based on the experiences of its 700 global employees over seven weeks as pioneers in the adoption of Microsoft Copilot for Microsoft 365 (Copilot for M365).
The study examined the generative AI tool’s impact on six human metrics in the workplace: communication, creativity, trust, work satisfaction, belongingness, and organisational citizenship behaviour.
The overall findings indicated increased structured creativity, idea sharing, and problem-solving, but limited improvements in spontaneous, original thinking.
Before the study, 72 per cent of employees felt cautious about their communications, anticipating Copilot for M365’s use in transcribing meetings.
However, after six weeks, 45 per cent of employees felt less cautious, indicating a significant shift towards more open communication as familiarity with the tool increased.
Avanade’s overall creativity and innovation score increased by 2.0 per cent to 82 per cent since last year.
Approval for embracing new ways of working rose to 89 per cent from 80 per cent although preference for tasks requiring original thinking saw a slight decline.
Nearly nine in ten (88 per cent) perceived Copilot for M365 to align with corporate values, and over half (65 per cent) said it aligned with personal values.
Copilot for M365’s assistance with tasks received a 75 per cent satisfaction score. However, the average ratings for the tool’s transparency (78 per cent) and accountability (65 per cent) highlighted the importance of understanding the tool’s decision-making process and implementing robust governance.
Following the introduction of Copilot for M365, 85 per cent of employees reported a sense of accomplishment from their work.
Additionally, 80 per cent of employees remained engaged with tasks, indicating that Copilot for M365 integrated into daily routines without reducing the stimulating aspects of work.
Team cohesion levels were generally sustained following the introduction of Copilot for M365, with 85 per cent reporting steady camaraderie and support from team members.
However, the average belongingness and team collaboration score decreased by 2.0 per cent, suggesting room for further improvement.
Technological adaptability increased to 86 per cent, indicating that the tool may facilitate or encourage technical skills and adaptation to new tools.
Altruism and courtesy remained stable at 88 per cent, suggesting that Copilot for M365 did not detract from the collaborative and helpful spirit of the organisation.
Commenting on the findings, Bhavya Kapoor, Growth Markets Area President at Avanade, said, “Generative AI, like Copilot for M365, is undeniably the next wave of computing in Southeast Asia, fundamentally reshaping the future of work. To fully maximise the benefits of AI, it’s crucial for employees not only to become proficient with these technologies but also to develop trust and confidence in using them. As we integrate AI into broader business strategies, it’s essential to focus on a human-centred AI approach. By redefining current job roles and establishing a robust digital ethics framework, we can create a future where technology and people work in harmony to drive business success.”
Veit Siegenheim, Global Future of Work Lead at Avanade, said, “Tools like Copilot for M365 are ushering in an era of transformational change in the workplace. This study demonstrates that finding the balance between augmenting work life without compromising the quality of employee engagement and support networks is crucial for a workplace culture in which generative AI supports the pursuit of professional growth and satisfaction. This will be even more important in the next phase of AI deployment, where we see value being unlocked by companies strategically integrating generative AI into broader transformation initiatives across all functions, fundamentally transforming how the entire enterprise operates.”
