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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool that can help our society create what the United Nations calls “decent work,” which includes job security and equal pay for equal work. Income-generating employment opportunities for all help support sustainable economic growth. With its ability to quickly process large amounts of data and make decisions based on that data, AI can help us achieve the sustainable development goal of decent work by providing insights into economic trends and helping us better understand the needs of businesses. For example, AI could provide valuable insight into consumer trends and behaviors by analyzing customer data. These insights inform business decisions regarding products or services that are most likely to succeed in the market, which leads to long-term and gainful employment. Furthermore, businesses could also use AI to identify areas where they may need additional human resources or investments to remain competitive and efficient. Let’s explore other potential applications of AI technology in promoting sustainable work and economic growth.
AI Technology and Equity in Hiring Processes
AI technology can identify potential sources of bias in the recruitment process and help ensure that job applicants are evaluated based on their qualifications and not on any other factors. For example, AI-based systems can detect patterns of discrimination in job postings, such as using gender-specific language or requiring certain education levels that may disproportionately exclude specific candidates. AI-based systems can also evaluate resumes for signs of bias, such as unacceptable words or phrases, or even analyze interview answers for unconscious bias.
Improve Job Security
One of the critical elements of decent work is job security. With the advent of automation, many jobs have become redundant due to machines taking over tasks that humans formerly did. However, AI can help improve job security if used properly. By utilizing AI to automate mundane tasks such as data entry or customer service inquiries, employees can be freed up to focus on higher-value tasks that require a more creative approach. This will help make organizations more efficient and provide better job security for employees as they continue to develop their skillset and stay ahead of any potential automation threats in their industry.
Equal Pay for Equal Work
Another important aspect of decent work is equal pay for equal work regardless of gender or race. AI can be used to objectively measure an employee’s performance and ensure that everyone is fairly paid based on their contribution to the organization. By utilizing algorithms and data-driven insights, organizations can ensure that everyone is receiving fair compensation and prevent any potential discrimination from occurring within the workplace.
Better Working Conditions
Using AI in the workplace can also help create better working conditions for employees and reduce physical strain from labor-intensive jobs such as warehouse workers or factory workers. By automating specific processes or providing robots with specialized tools to do certain tasks, employers can reduce employee fatigue while still meeting production quotas and providing quality products or services to customers. Moreover, this could also improve safety standards since machines are less likely to make errors than humans in potentially dangerous situations like manufacturing plants or laboratories.
AI-Powered Training Solutions
One area where AI can profoundly impact is employee training and skills development. These solutions can range from online courses to interactive tutorials designed to help employees quickly master new skills or refine existing ones. For example, AI-powered platforms like Degreed or Step Upwards offer personalized learning paths for employees, allowing them to quickly gain the knowledge they need to excel at their job. The best part about these platforms is their ability to be tailored to an organization’s specific needs, allowing them to provide customized learning experiences for their staff. Plus, since AI powers them, they constantly evolve and adapt as new technologies emerge and trends change. This means that organizations can ensure their employees always have access to the latest information and techniques available in their field of expertise.
While some may see AI as a threat to employment, the evidence suggests that the technology can achieve the United Nations’ sustainable development goal when used correctly. By creating equity in hiring processes, improving job security, achieving equal pay for equal work, and providing personalized employee training, AI can enhance opportunities and labor conditions worldwide.
Wednesday, May 15, 2024
12:00PM ET | 9:00 AM PT
