Recent research highlights managers’ growing interest in AI.
- 86% of UK managers excited about generative AI’s potential.
- New data shows managers favour data-driven decision making.
- Many managers rely on intuition due to data inaccessibility.
- Concerns around AI privacy and organisational policy remain.
Recent research by Visier indicates a significant trend among UK people managers towards embracing AI tools to enhance their roles. A substantial 86% of managers expressed excitement about the possibilities generative AI tools present in improving their effectiveness, showing a clear enthusiasm for technological integration in managerial functions.
Managers are keen on making data-informed decisions, and the report highlights that 94% of UK respondents believe better access to people-related data would boost confidence in their decision-making processes. Yet, there is a reliance on intuition; almost half of the surveyed managers noted that their current decisions often depend more on intuition and experience than on concrete data.
Despite the enthusiasm, challenges persist in accessing necessary data, which hampers accurate decision-making. The vast quantities of potentially useful organisational data remain untapped by managers who are not data analysts. Addressing this gap could significantly influence decisions concerning hiring, promotions, engagement, and productivity.
Survey data suggest that AI adoption is already in motion, with 52% of UK managers having utilised generative AI tools in their managerial roles. This indicates a growing trend towards integrating AI in everyday managerial tasks.
However, trust issues pose a challenge; 33% of UK managers are concerned about data privacy and security, and organisational restrictions further complicate generative AI adoption. Addressing these concerns may be crucial in fostering broader AI integration across managerial practices.
As Ben Harris, Vice President EMEA at Visier, noted, there is a need for managers to balance data-driven insights with practical experience to maintain strategic alignment and competitiveness. Similarly, Keith Bigelow, Visier’s Chief Product Officer, emphasised AI’s role in democratising data access and acting as a personal coach for employees, thus enhancing overall performance.
Ultimately, AI tools offer promising enhancements to managerial roles, provided concerns around data access and trust are addressed.
