In 2025, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and automation will go beyond a technological trend and fundamentally reshape workforce dynamics and operational workflows across industries.
Companies increasingly recognise these technologies' potential to enhance efficiency and empower employees by freeing them from mundane tasks.
This shift allows workers to engage in more complex, meaningful roles, fostering job satisfaction and professional growth. By leveraging AI and automation, organisations can create a more supportive work environment where human expertise is complemented by advanced tools, leading to a more agile and innovative workforce.
Marius Merkel, director of IBM Automation Software for Asia-Pacific, emphasises that this transformation is about more than just efficiency; it is about empowering employees to engage in more meaningful work.
Preparing for change
The conversation begins with Merkel addressing a common concern: the impact of AI and automation on employment.
"I think the adoption of generative AI while automating processes and tasks in the current businesses is something which everybody takes very seriously based on what is happening in the market." Marius Merkel
This highlights organisations' need to prepare for the inevitable changes that AI will bring. He further clarifies that being prepared is not an exaggeration but an essential focus for businesses keen on successfully navigating the future landscape.
Rethinking operational frameworks
While the high-level benefits of AI and automation are often discussed, Merkel points out that many overlook their practical applications within existing operational frameworks.
He argues that organisations should not be distracted by the hype surrounding new developments but instead focus on how these innovations can enhance their current processes.
He recommends that leaders focus on integrating AI into existing day-to-day operations. This perspective encourages businesses to look beyond the allure of creating something entirely new and to consider integrating AI into their current workflows to achieve greater efficiency and value.
Importance of transparency
Understanding existing processes is crucial for successful integration. Merkel stresses the importance of transparency: "Get the awareness about how current processes are working for you."
He advocates for a comprehensive analysis of operations to identify gaps that AI can address. By fostering a culture of transparency, organisations can better comprehend their challenges and leverage technology to fill those gaps.
This approach requires a shift in mindset; technology should not merely be seen as a solution to problems but as a means of enhancing existing capabilities.
Addressing the skills gap
Another key point Merkel raises is the pressing issue of skill gaps within the workforce. He acknowledges that as organisations advance towards automation, they must confront the reality of limited skills available in the market.
Reflecting on his experience engaging with regional customers, he acknowledged the persistent skills gap. According to Merkel, the challenge lies in identifying the necessary skills and fostering an environment conducive to upskilling and reskilling employees. This approach ensures that the existing workforce can adapt to new technologies effectively.
Fostering a culture of learning
To address these skill gaps, Merkel suggests that organisations focus on knowledge training and developing a clear learning path for employees. He explains that integrating new technologies and knowledge into teams should be a priority.
He suggests leaders ask themselves: "How can you better, faster, and more efficiently bring these new technologies and knowledge into your organisation?" He posits that this proactive approach to skill development will enhance employee satisfaction and empower them to take on more complex, fulfilling roles within their organisations.
Collaboration over replacement
Following a simulation of AI's economic impact, the McKinsey Global Institute predicts that the global economic impact of AI could reach an additional US$13 trillion by 2030, representing a 16% increase in cumulative GDP and an annual growth rate of 1.2%.
This potential growth, driven primarily by labour automation and innovation, positions AI alongside historically significant general-purpose technologies. The report also indicates that by 2030, around 70% of companies will adopt at least one AI technology, although fewer than half will fully integrate the five key categories of AI.
Setting aside the numbers, AI will have a profound impact on jobs, displacing some activities. Despite this, Merkel believes that the narrative must shift towards one of collaboration between humans and machines.
He advocates for a cultural rethinking within organisations, where IT is no longer viewed solely as a cost centre but as a vital revenue driver.
"The more you're shifting this together, the bigger impact you will see on the value side," he explains. This collaboration can improve customer experiences and overall business efficiency, reinforcing the idea that technology should augment human capabilities rather than replace them.
Maintaining the human touch
Furthermore, Merkel emphasises maintaining the human touch in a technology-driven landscape. He argues that "identifying pain points is actually the best argument you can make while adopting new technology."
By focusing on the real challenges faced by businesses—the pain points, as he refers to them—organisations can implement AI solutions that genuinely address these issues while retaining the personal elements of customer and employee interactions.
Ethical considerations
Finally, Merkel touches on the ethical considerations surrounding the deployment of AI. He asserts that organisations must prioritise responsible AI practices to build trust in technology. "It needs to be explainable," he insists, underlining the significance of transparency in AI outputs.
As businesses increasingly rely on AI for decision-making, ensuring that these systems are fair, unbiased, and understandable is crucial for fostering stakeholder confidence.
The future is collaborative.
Merkel's insights provide a valuable framework for organisations navigating this complex landscape as we stand on the brink of a new era defined by AI and automation. By focusing on integrating technology into existing workflows, addressing skill gaps, fostering collaboration, and prioritising ethical practices, businesses can enhance productivity and ensure a more engaged and satisfied workforce.
The future is not simply about machines replacing humans but about creating an environment where technology and human expertise coexist, driving innovation and success in a rapidly evolving world.
