What AI asks of employers: more than technology | Different Thinking Podcast #29

The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way we work. What once sounded like science fiction is today a reality in many organizations. But as an employer or HR professional, how do you deal with it wisely? And how do you keep an eye on people and work in a world where technology is getting smarter?

AI as a support, not a replacement

AI can do many things. Think of systems that automatically generate texts, analyze images or help recognize fraud. Within the police, where Daniel Stuart works as project manager for AI, technology is being used to make processes smarter and more efficient. "But AI can perceive, not interpret properly. Humans remain indispensable," Stuart says.

AI is thus not a replacement for work, but a support for people. It offers opportunities to automate repetitive or error-prone tasks, allowing employees to focus on work that requires judgment and empathy.

Digital literacy becomes indispensable

Anyone who wants to deploy AI in the workplace must invest in knowledge. Not just in the IT department, but precisely in the people who work with it on a daily basis. Europe requires from 2025 that employees working with AI understand the risks and limitations. Consider questions of transparency, data security and human control.

Sustainability also plays a role: large language models consume an enormous amount of energy. Typing a simple "thank you" imperceptibly consumes a lot of power. "You have to ask yourself with every application: do I really need AI for this?" said Stuart.

Want to know more?

In the latest episode of the Different Thinking Podcast, Daniel Stuart talks at length about the impact of AI on work, privacy and the role of HR. Listen to episode 29 on the impact of AI in the workplace.