Every major technological revolution ushering in game-changing possibilities will also feature growing pains—it's just the inevitability of seismic change.
One such growing pain impacting AI's sweeping shift across practically every industry and enterprise is an emerging disconnect between those investing heavily in AI and those deploying and using it. There is understandable C-Suite excitement over AI's promise as a tool to significantly boost productivity and cut costs. However, there have been challenges around implementation and adoption as IT leaders and users are still grappling with the most effective and efficient use cases for the tech.
How is it best to bridge this divide? Potentially, by involving employees in their organisation's AI strategy and processes so that they feel confident and engaged.
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Engagement, Engagement, Engagement
Last month, monday.com published research which found that over two-thirds of UK workers want a greater say in their company’s direction. The work management company's survey of over 520 UK employees revealed that 67 percent want more significant influence over their company’s direction, while half seek increased transparency regarding workplace and technological changes.
Additionally, while three-fourths of respondents say they're open to using AI tools, 38 percent expressed concern that AI could replace aspects of their work they find fulfilling, further highlighting the importance of balancing technological innovation with employee happiness.
How can businesses strike the right balance between AI-driven efficiency and preserving job satisfaction?
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Ben Barnett[/caption]
"The key is to position AI as a collaborator rather than a competitor," Ben Barnett, Regional Vice President of UK&I at monday.com, told UC Today. This means implementing AI to remove bottlenecks – automating admin-heavy tasks or surfacing insights faster – so employees can spend more time on strategic, creative, or high-impact work."
"Businesses that engage their teams early in AI adoption offer proper training, and clearly demonstrate how AI enhances their skills can create a workplace where efficiency and job satisfaction naturally complement each other.”
While AI adoption is growing, monday.com's research highlights areas where employees think the technology needs improvement, especially around automation, resource management and security.
There are clear areas where companies can prioritise when deploying AI across workflows, and Barnett stresses that the most effective AI strategies address real pain points.
"If automation is too rigid or disruptive, employees will resist it – so businesses should focus on AI that enhances existing workflows rather than overhauling them," Barnett said. "In resource management, AI should offer smart recommendations without overriding human judgment."
"To ensure adoption and effectiveness, teams should be actively involved in shaping and implementing AI, so it aligns with their actual needs," Barnett continued. "And when it comes to security, companies must be transparent, compliant, and proactive in protecting both company and employee data.”
