Despite benefits, trust issues surround use of AI at work

Free Malaysia Today

16-05-2025

While the variety of uses in the workplace grows, trust of artificial intelligence remains a challenge. (ETX pic)
PARIS : Artificial intelligence is mainstream, becoming a true partner in the workplace – such is the finding of a global survey conducted by Melbourne Business School and KPMG, involving over 48,000 respondents from 47 countries.
Nearly six in 10 employees say they use AI on their own initiative, with a third of them using it at least once a week. And the benefits are numerous: time savings, better access to information, and a real boost for innovation. Nearly half of those surveyed even believe AI has increased revenue-generating activity in their workplace.
Still, doubt persists. For some, AI use raises a fundamental question: is it really still work? Others dread the judgements that will come their way if those around them at work discover they are using these tools.
Because by changing the way we produce and collaborate, AI is forcing everyone to rethink their place, skills, and the very essence of their professional commitment. As a result, a massive phenomenon of hidden use is developing: 57% of employees present AI-generated content as their own without mentioning that this kind of tool has been involved.
Meanwhile, 66% don't even check the answers AI provide, leading to work errors.
Part of the reason for this is a glaring lack of guidance or training. Fewer than half of employees say they have received training in AI, while only 40% say their company has a clear policy on its use. Added to this is growing pressure, as half of all respondents are afraid of being left behind professionally if they don't quickly familiarise themselves with these tools.
'The findings reveal that AI at work is delivering performance benefits but also opening up risk from complacent and non-transparent use,' said Nicole Gillespie from the University of Melbourne.
This survey highlights the sometimes risky and poorly supervised use of these tools: nearly one employee in two admits to having entered sensitive data into public tools such as ChatGPT, while 44% admit to having violated their company's internal policy by preferring these solutions to those provided by their organisation.
Younger employees, aged between 18 and 34, are the most inclined to adopt these unwise practices, which are not without consequences. Organsations and their employees are exposed to major risks, whether in terms of significant financial losses, serious reputational damage or breaches of data confidentiality.
It is, therefore, urgent to strengthen governance around AI. 'It is without doubt the greatest technology innovation of a generation, so it's crucial that AI is grounded in trust given the fast pace at which it continues to advance,' said David Rowlands from KPMG.
'Organisations have a clear role to play when it comes to ensuring the AI revolution happens responsibly, vital to ensuring a future where the technology is both trustworthy and trusted.'