The Battle of Robot vs Human: Who Will Reign Supreme in Business?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a hot topic at the moment. It’s everywhere. You probably already use it every day. That chatbot you’re talking to about your lost parcel? Powered by conversational AI. The ‘recommended’ items lined up under your most frequently brought Amazon purchases? Driven by AI/ML (machine learning) algorithms. You might even use generative AI to help write your LinkedIn posts or emails.
But where does the line stop? When AI tackles monotonous and repetitive tasks, as well as research and create content at a much faster pace than any human could, why would we even need humans at all? Is the ‘human element’ actually required for a business to function? Let’s dig deeper into the benefits, challenges, and risks regarding the best person (or entity?) for the job: robot or human?
Why AI works
AI has the power to optimize business processes and reduce time spent on tasks that eat into employees’ general productivity and business output during their working day. Already, companies are adopting AI for multiple functions, whether that be reviewing resumes for job applications, identifying anomalies in customer datasets, or writing content for social media.
And, they can do all this in a fraction of the time it would take for humans. In circumstances where early diagnosis and intervention are everything, the deployment of AI can have a hugely positive impact across the board. Thanks to their ability to uncover patterns in vast amounts of data, AI technologies can also support the work of law enforcement agencies, including by helping them identify and predict likely crime scenes and trends.
AI’s ability to save businesses money and time is nothing new. Think about it: the less time employees spend on tedious tasks such as scanning documents and uploading data, the more time they can spend on business strategy and growth. AI-based systems may also help eliminate the risk of human error, working around the clock without ever getting tired.
The limitations of AI
Make no mistake, however: on closer inspection, things do get a little more complicated. While AI systems can minimize errors associated with fatigue and distraction, they are not infallible. AI, too, can make errors and ‘hallucinate’, especially if there are issues with the data it was trained on. AI systems are only as good as the data they are trained on, requiring human expertise and oversight.
With AI being fed on expansive datasets, this brings up the question of privacy. When it comes to personal data, actors with malicious intent may be able to find ways to bypass the privacy protocols and access this data. Additionally, AI cannot understand emotions in the way humans do, impacting customer/user experience.
Why we need people
Humans aren’t perfect. But when it comes to resonating with people and making important decisions, surely humans are the best candidates for the job? Unlike AI, people can adapt to evolving situations and think creatively.
While AI might be able to provide a list of potential brand names, it’s the people behind the brand who understand their audiences and can better connect with others, fostering stronger relationships. Humans can adapt quickly to evolving conditions and make ethical decisions based on societal impact.
What’s the answer?
The most effective approach to cybersecurity is not to rely solely on AI or humans but to use the strengths of both. This could mean using AI to handle large-scale data analysis and processing while relying on human expertise for decision-making, strategic planning, and communications. AI should be used as a tool to aid and enhance your workforce, not replace it.
AI lies at the heart of ESET products, enabling our cybersecurity experts to put their attention into creating the best solutions for ESET customers. Learn how ESET leverages AI and machine learning for enhanced threat detection, investigation, and response.