How workers are unlocking new ways of working
Summary
Research analyzing over 1.5 million work-related ChatGPT messages reveals that workers are increasingly using AI tools for tasks outside their traditional occupational boundaries, a phenomenon called 'task crossover.' The study found that some of these cross-occupation activities are not just one-time experiments but are becoming recurring parts of workers' regular AI workflows. For instance, tasks like discussing goods with customers, writing advertising copy, and creating marketing materials show high rates of return. Workers use AI differently for these external tasks, often providing examples and asking for verification rather than requesting explanations. This pattern suggests a potential path for job transformation where the actual duties and activities within a job can expand and change significantly over time, even before official job titles are updated. The findings highlight the importance of considering work design alongside AI tool access when organizations implement their AI strategies.
(Source:OpenAI)