The rise of artificial intelligence in the workplace could soon force companies to rethink the traditional role of human resources, with experts suggesting that businesses may eventually need dedicated “robot relations” or “worker-automation relations” departments.
The concept may sound futuristic, but workplace tensions involving AI are already emerging. Employees are increasingly questioning how automated systems make decisions about scheduling, performance, hiring and even job security. According to an OECD survey, the United States is currently leading in the adoption of algorithmic management, with 90% of managers reporting that their companies use at least one automated tool to instruct, monitor or evaluate workers.
As AI takes on more management responsibilities, questions over accountability are becoming harder to ignore. Workers may want to know who is responsible when an AI system makes a mistake, whether employees can refuse to use AI and how automated systems should be held accountable for decisions affecting their careers. In California, lawmakers have also moved to restrict the use of automated systems in workplace disciplinary and termination decisions, reflecting growing concerns over “robo bosses.”
The International Labour Organization has warned that algorithmic management can change how workers perform their jobs by increasing monitoring, standardising procedures and reducing employees’ discretion. At the same time, unions are increasingly negotiating for protections around AI, including retraining, compensation, job security and the use of employee data. These developments suggest that managing the relationship between workers and automation could become an important part of corporate governance.
Experts say a future “robot relations” department would need to go beyond simply teaching employees how to work with machines. It could address concerns around employee wellbeing, career progression, reskilling, workplace surveillance and the governance of AI systems. As artificial intelligence becomes more deeply embedded in everyday work, the office of the future may therefore require a new kind of workplace support — one designed not only for relationships between people, but also for the growing relationship between humans and machines.
source: cnbc