AI is transforming the future of professionals. Since OpenAI launched ChatGPT in November 2022, organisations have been experimenting with AI to enhance productivity and efficiency.
Introducing trusted AI into workflows can ‘unlock time’ for professionals. It can also enable professionals to focus on the work that adds greater value for clients.
“I personally believe that AI will benefit the future of the workforce. It will help to reduce the risks, the admin, and the less enjoyable parts of working life while allowing professionals to generate more meaningful impact,” said Jackie Rhodes, Managing Director for Thomson Reuters Asia and Emerging Markets.
35% tip AI to have ‘transformational’ effect on professions
Thomson Reuters surveyed 1,000 professionals working in legal, tax and accounting, global trade, risk, and compliance. They are based in Australia, Japan, the Middle East and North Africa (regions comprising Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates), Korea and Southeast Asia (regions comprising Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam). The results feature in the new Future of Professionals Report – Asia & Emerging Market Edition.
Professionals predict that AI and large language models will become more widespread. Over one in three professionals we surveyed (35%) believe they will be ‘transformational’ in the next five years. A further 29% expect it to have a ‘high impact’ on their profession.
Admin hampers higher-level work
Administrative tasks are a major roadblock to increased productivity in the workplace. Over half of professionals (51%) surveyed want AI to reduce administrative tasks at work.
Higher on the wishlist is for AI to offer more advanced capabilities. A majority of professionals surveyed (70%) hold a desire for AI to produce work products for them. This may include specialist tasks such as drafting and refining/editing documents and analyses.
AI governance models lack definition
Most respondents agree AI can ease the administrative burden on workflow. At the same time, a majority have reservations about ethical frameworks and principles designed to govern AI and data. The survey results revealed just 4% out of all participants indicated current AI regulation is adequate.
Managing perceptions about AI internally is essential to maintain public reputation and prepare for future regulation. Most organisations do not have a clearly defined set of principles designed to govern AI. This makes it more difficult for companies to ensure they are using AI ethically and responsibly.
Leveraging AI solutions
Our new report builds on the inaugural Thomson Reuters Future of Professionals Report released in August 2023. The new Future of Professionals Report – Asia & Emerging Markets Edition, leverages deep market expertise with additional commentary.
Thomson Reuters is a longstanding supporter of trusted AI and technology solutions. Our mission is to ‘Inform the Way Forward’ during this significant period of transformation.
We designed the report to help professionals navigate the complexities of AI digital transformation. It explores how professionals are augmenting their skill sets and work output with AI. Our research suggests that human-centric AI ethics, principles, and governance can build trust.
Get ahead of the fast-growing generative AI technology revolution with our insights. To drive workplace innovation, find the answers you need and more, in this informative report.
