There’s no consensus on Americans’ use of AI at work

The Ipsos Consumer Tracker, fielded on Ipsos' Omnibus platform, asks Americans questions about culture, the economy and the forces that shape our lives. Here's one thing we learned this week.

Why we asked about AI at work: Last wave, we noted that many more workers (50% vs 38% last year) are seeing ChatGPT or similar tools used in their workplaces. Ipsos also just released its fifth-annual Global AI Monitor. So how are workers feeling about all of this new tech?

What we found: One in four (38%) workers (full- or part-time) say they aren’t using AI at work at all, with a stark divide between age groups (26% of those under 35, 59% of those over 55). Looking at those who do use AI at work, we see a mixed bag of sentiment, but it leans a little positive and is all likely transitional as we become more comfortable (or don’t) with these tools.

We tested a lot of statements we hear actual people say. 

• Almost half (44%) say AI tools are making them more productive at work.
• But nearly as many (38%) say the tools are a good start but not ready to make “finished” projects.
• One in three (34%) say that the tools reduce the time they spend on tasks they don’t like doing.
• One in five say AI is good at some things, but not the things they want it to be good at, and say that while AI saves them time on some tasks it just means they do more tasks.
• About 15% also say their employers think it will make them more productive, but that’s not happening or say that they’re hesitant to use it due to company concerns about privacy and security, etc.
• 14% say AI tools are overrated for work.
• One in ten say they’re worried their employer wants to replace them with AI tools. 

All of this seems pretty straightforward. The tech is new. People are skeptical and getting mixed messages. Sometimes those messages conflict with our own lived experience as the tools don’t always perform as promised.

More insights from this wave of the Ipsos Consumer Tracker:

When pressed for cash, Americans cut back, postpone and trade down

Amidst economic concern, U.S. consumers reshape food shopping habits

Younger Americans care more about brand, but not all categories are made the same

The Ipsos Care-o-Meter: What does America know about vs. what does America care about?