Generative AI is a transformative technology that will impact many business processes in the long term. It’s not just about mere efficiency gains but about a fundamental shift in workflows and decision-making through analysing large data volumes and interactions. I observe that many companies are currently in an “experimenting” phase. A text is created here, and a document is summarised there. Expectations are high but can quickly fade if the strategic approach to using AI tools is neglected. When results are poor, the technology is often blamed. But AI is merely a tool.

Firstly, we need to learn how to use it. Secondly, we must define the goal and precisely how such a tech tool can help us. Regardless of which tool we use, we must specifically answer the question of what benefit we gain from it. For this, KPIs need to be established. It’s about numbers: how much time could we save with generative AI tools? How many routine tasks could be automated? When the hype fades, it comes down to numbers. We start overconfident with new tools, but only numbers show if we truly understand the new technology.

Here are some suitable KPIs to measure the benefits of generative AI tools in the workplace:

1. Time Savings: Measures the time saved by automating routine tasks. Example: number of hours saved per week through AI-assisted automation.
2. Automated Tasks: Number and proportion of tasks automated through AI. This KPI provides an overview of the level of automation and relieves employees from repetitive tasks.
3. Productivity Increase: Comparison of productivity before and after the introduction of AI tools. This could be measured by the number of completed tasks or processing time per task.
4. Error Reduction: Comparison of the number of errors before and after the introduction of AI tools. AI can reduce the error rate in repetitive tasks through automation and precision.
5. Cost Savings: Calculation of cost reduction through saved time and automation. This helps to represent the direct economic benefit of AI implementation.
6. Employee Satisfaction: Measures employee satisfaction with the new processes and technologies. This could be done through regular surveys, which provide insight into how employees perceive AI tools as a relief.
7. Faster Decision-Making: Measures how much faster decisions are made using AI-assisted data and analysis. This KPI shows the impact of AI on process efficiency.

By combining these KPIs, companies can make the actual benefit of generative AI tools measurable and demonstrate the long-term advantages of the tools beyond the initial hype.

Leaders and Employees have to embrace change

With the introduction of generative AI into the workplace, the requirements for leaders are also changing. They need to understand AI technology to comprehend use cases and derive meaningful KPIs. A digital mindset that emphasises flexibility and a willingness to learn is helpful here. Issues like transparency and fairness play an increasingly important role as employees take on more responsibility for using and monitoring AI.

While generative AI makes many processes more efficient, it also leads to comprehensive changes in roles and tasks. Repetitive tasks are increasingly automated, creating space for more demanding activities. Through AI, new fields of work emerge in the long run, where human competencies such as creativity, empathy, and problem-solving skills are particularly in demand. Each individual is, therefore, called upon to learn for a lifetime. The willingness to change with the technology and to embrace and shape change positively for oneself is becoming increasingly important. However, I see that this presents a major challenge for many and will become a huge task for companies.

I’m happy to help you with your AI journey.