The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) into workplaces over the next decade could enable millions of employees in the US and UK to adopt 4-day workweeks by 2033, according to a new report. The analysis by the thinktank Autonomy indicates that productivity gains from Artificial Intelligence could allow 28% of the workforce – 8.8 million people in Britain and 35 million in the US – to reduce their hours from 40 to 32 per week while maintaining their current pay.
If realized, this would mark a major shift in work culture, with potential benefits for both employees and employers.
Major Productivity Boost on the Horizon Due to AI
With Artificial Intelligence taking care of more repetitive jobs, the report suggests that 71% of the US workforce and 88% of British workers may see at least a 10% reduction in required working hours to complete their duties. That extra time could allow millions to condense their work into 4 days instead of 5 without a loss in pay.
More Free Time and Better Health?
Proponents argue the 4-day schedule would improve general well-being by alleviating widespread physical and mental health problems linked to overwork.
“Too many studies of Artificial Intelligence I solely focus on profitability or a jobs apocalypse,” said Will Stronge, Autonomy’s director of research. “This study tries to show that when the technology’s purpose is shifted, it can not only improve work practices but also work-life balance.”
Which Industries Are Primed for Change?
The research identified roles that involve higher levels of automation potential. For example, over a third of employees in real estate, professional services and public administration may transition to 32 hour weeks. Other prime sectors include finance, insurance and manufacturing.
On a state and local level, Utah, Massachusetts and parts of Washington state demonstrate the highest viability to adopt widespread 4-day schedules, along with numerous districts across Greater London.
Meanwhile, jobs requiring human skills like judgment, creativity and analysis show lower susceptibility to time reductions. Teachers, nurses, engineers and scientists may not benefit directly, but could still participate depending on utilization strategies adopted by individual organizations.
What Do Governments Say?
The report calls upon policymakers on both sides of the Atlantic to embrace Artificial Intelligence’s potential. It asks public and private employers to become leaders in ethical Artificial Intelligence deployment to revamp workplace efficiency.
Some legislatures are already acting. In September 2022, US Congressman Mark Takano introduced a bill to gradually shorten the standard workweek to 32 hours. “It will take government action to ensure gains in efficiency are felt by all workers,” he commented.
In July, England’s South Cambridge shire County Council defended its AI-assisted shift to a 4-day week against central government opposition. Critics contend it has degraded constituent services, but the council cites $300,000 in savings from higher employee retention and productivity.
Scotland’s regional government is currently piloting a similar experiment with select civil servants. While initial complications necessitated new hires, their unions report administrative areas that could trim hours by 20% without adding jobs based on AI adoption.
Risks and Rewards
Despite the promise, governments may need to implement programs to retrain employees whose jobs become fully automated. And industries dependent on consumer habits may hesitate to close weekday operations. But after years focusing on AI’s potential negatives, perhaps it’s time to explore the possible positives. Done right, the technology could unlock far better lifestyles for millions – a future of working better, not necessarily more.
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