Since the release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in late 2022, Chief Human Resources Officers (CHROs) have been shaken by the prospect of generative AI and its impact on the workforce as a whole. With a mix of confusion, excitement and some fear, Evanta’s CHRO communities are coming together to better understand generative AI, along with its opportunities and risks.
We recently surveyed our CHRO communities about their views and current approach to this emerging technology. Here is what 250 HR leaders had to say about generative AI and their outlook for the future of business.
Are CHROs Currently Using It?
More than half of CHROs (55%) shared that they are not currently using ChatGPT or another generative AI tool at their organizations. When asked why not, several HR leaders report cybersecurity, data privacy and legal concerns, while others said they are still identifying where it can be useful, indicating “It's not a ‘no’, rather ‘not yet’.” For those who are using generative AI, they shared they are doing so “informally,” “very limited” or for “research.”
Do They Have a Company Policy?
44% of CHROs are in the process of developing an approach to AI tools, but do not have one yet. Another 20% are not allowing employees to use generative AI tools. An equal percentage (18%) say they are either granting some employees access or all employees access to AI tools.
What’s Their Outlook?
77% of HR executives say they have either a “very positive” or “somewhat positive” outlook on generative AI and its impact on the future of business. Eighteen percent have a neutral viewpoint, and 5% have a negative perception.
What Are the Opportunities?
29% of HR leaders believe generative AI can help automate redundant tasks and save time in the short- or mid-term. Another 28% believe it can improve current processes, and 23% think it will help provide insights from analytics. In addition, CHROs commented that it can “reduce think time” and “create time for higher value work.”
What Is the Future Impact?
Likewise, 29% of CHROs anticipate that generative AI will create operational efficiencies in the future, and 26% believe it will remove tedious tasks from the workforce. Another 18% believe it will improve customer experience.
What Are Their Concerns?
23% of CHROs are concerned about data privacy, and 22% are unsure if it can be deployed securely. In addition, HR leaders shared concerns about “staff using it without our knowledge” “reliability,” and “skills needed to leverage it fully.”
What Are Employees’ Concerns?
60% of HR leaders believe employees’ greatest concern about generative AI is that it will replace their role. Anecdotally, a few shared that they have not fielded concerns from employees, saying “I'm not sure employees understand it enough to be concerned,” and “I don't think employees realize the broader impact yet.”
Future Impact of Generative AI
We asked CHROs to share what they foresee the impact of generative AI will be on the future of business. A few shared that it is too early to tell, but many believe it will transform the business landscape. Here is a sample of their comments:
Mitigate DEI risks.”
Reinvent how work is done - across all departments and functions.”
Create new jobs.”
AI has the potential to change every aspect of work and business. Regulation and ethics will be critical.”
Don’t navigate your generative AI journey alone. Join your local CHRO community to connect with like-minded peers on the possibilities of this emerging technology.
Based on 250 CHRO responses to Evanta’s Community Pulse Survey, June 2023.
by CHROs, for CHROs
Join the conversation with peers in your local CHRO community.
