Myth #1: AI can replace many employees

We've all heard the buzz about artificial intelligence (AI) dramatically reshaping industries, transforming workplaces and fundamentally altering how we live. The modern office setting or even industrial factory floor could be a scene from a science fiction novel with robotic assistants, automated entry systems and AI tools handling routine tasks. 

With these advancements, it’s easy to understand why a pervasive myth lingers: AI will replace human jobs. We say it’s time to debunk that myth. The reality? AI is designed to enhance human capabilities, not replace them. It’s about forming a relationship where AI and humans work together, especially when it comes to your real estate footprint.

The strength of AI lies in its ability to complement and elevate human skills. Imagine AI as your high-powered personal assistant, tirelessly handling repetitive tasks and sifting through vast data pools, leaving you free to focus on strategic, creative and complex responsibilities.

Take a data center facility, for example. AI can forecast power needs to improve energy consumption. This doesn't make facility managers obsolete but empowers them to concentrate on strategic initiatives and enhance operational efficiencies. This also helps executives see clear cost savings when reviewing financial and energy consumption reports, allowing them to invest in other valuable business areas.  

On the other hand, by automating monotonous tasks, AI can free up professionals to tackle more intricate and creative jobs. For the healthcare sector, AI algorithms can analyze enormous datasets to aid doctors in diagnosing conditions more accurately. AI also can track how space is used in a healthcare facility, providing valuable insights to better organize the space, reduce waste and improve efficiency for patients and staff. This information can assist leadership in making informed decisions to reduce costs, increase patient satisfaction and streamline operations. This doesn’t mean doctors are no longer needed. It offers them powerful tools to improve their diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. 

While these AI solutions are helping jobs, you can’t miss the need for human oversight. From initial programming to continuous maintenance and refinement, human input remains critical. Even the most advanced AI has what’s called “hallucinations” that provide false or misleading information and human intervention is essential to identify and correct these faults.

AI's contribution to the job market will extend beyond tech, creating a swath of new careers that need a new set of skills and expertise. Careers that didn't exist a decade ago, like AI specialists and AI ethicists, are now in high demand. Roles such as AI trainers, explainability specialists and bias auditors are also emerging. Imagine a smart building architect who specializes in designing smart buildings that incorporate AI systems such as energy management and occupancy sensors. Or an AI implementation specialist who could help you integrate AI technologies into your existing systems. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report, AI is expected to generate 97 million new jobs by 2025, outpacing any job losses due to automation. 

AI has the potential to bring about a new era of creativity and productivity by complementing human skills and creating new job opportunities. The idea that AI will replace humans is not just a myth, it's just plain wrong. 

AI isn’t a threat, it’s more a trusty sidekick—a tool that’s there to make your employees shine even brighter. Yes, the job market will evolve and everyone will need to adapt. But instead of fearing a robot takeover, imagine all the new opportunities that AI will bring.

Learn more about how AI can help transform your workplace and create new opportunities.