TL;DR: PwC’s major workplace study reveals that daily generative AI users experience significantly higher productivity (92% vs. 58%), job security (58% vs. 36%), and salary outcomes (52% vs. 32%) compared to non-users. However, only 14% of workers use GenAI daily, with training gaps and unclear organisational strategies limiting wider adoption.

A comprehensive PwC study examining AI’s workplace impact has uncovered a striking paradox: whilst AI tools deliver substantial benefits to users, adoption remains surprisingly low across the workforce. Only 14% of workers reported using generative AI tools daily—a modest increase from 12% the previous year—with just 54% having used AI at all for their roles in the past year.

Tangible Benefits for Daily Users

The research reveals compelling advantages for employees who have integrated AI into their daily workflows. Daily GenAI users reported 92% productivity improvements compared to just 58% amongst non-users. Beyond productivity, these engaged users experienced higher job security perceptions (58% vs. 36%) and better salary outcomes (52% vs. 32%).

Adoption of more advanced agentic AI systems remains even lower at 6% daily usage. PwC attributes this gap to insufficient training resources, particularly affecting non-managers where only 51% feel adequately supported with learning opportunities, compared to 72% of senior executives and 66% of managers.

The Training and Communication Imperative

The study identifies organisational transparency as critical for successful AI integration. “Workers thrive when they understand the plan – alignment with leadership sees motivation rise by 78%,” noted PwC Global Clients & Industries Leader Nicki Wakefield. With 35% of workers feeling overwhelmed weekly and only 43% receiving pay rises last year, the appetite for workplace change may be dampened without proper support structures.

PwC recommends companies clearly communicate their AI vision, provide accessible training, and allocate dedicated time for experimentation. Global Workforce Leader Pete Brown emphasised the stakes: “Work itself needs to be redesigned and the human–machine partnership redefined. Getting this right will determine whether GenAI becomes a true engine of growth and inclusion, or a missed opportunity.”

The research suggests organisations must bridge the gap between AI’s proven benefits and current low adoption rates through transparent communication, comprehensive training programmes, and redesigned workflows that genuinely support human-machine collaboration.

Source: TechRadar Pro