Very Soon Humans Will Become Assistants To AI: Adi Yoffe

In a post-pandemic, tech-disrupted world, the future is a kaleidoscope of innovation and opportunity. A world aided by artificial intelligence is on a continuous drive for improvement. Israel-based Business Futurist, Adi Yoffe shares key insights in an exclusive interview with Republic.

As a business futurist, what are your insights on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of business in India?

The biggest disruptor in our reality today is undoubtedly artificial intelligence. We will be impacted by this global technology improvement in every aspect of our lives. This is not just about productivity and efficiency, but it raises new questions about the future of education, the future of human knowledge, and the future of humanity. The question of whether generative AI is responsible for a given product, piece of content, movie, or program, will soon be irrelevant.

Hence, ethics and regulations will play a significant role in defining the future relationship between humans and algorithms. At the end of this process, we will know who holds the essential skills of creativity and innovation for businesses of the future, hopefully it would be humans. How do you see emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain,

How will AI impact the way businesses operate in the future?

AI is being referred to as a “just” assistant to humans, a decision support tool, but it is just the beginning. During the next few years, we will be reversing the roles and humans will become assistants to AI, so every businessperson must ask himself how he or she can stay relevant in a world like this.

The blockchain is an example of an alternative to traditional systems. Although the regulation still holds this alternative, understanding the future requires understanding habits and behaviours that people are willing to change and to use different tools and standards (even potentially). In light of the fact that people are willing to use AI tools and want to conduct financial transactions through alternative financial systems such as blockchain, businesses should begin preparing now for these changes.

As automation continues to advance, there are concerns about job displacement. How can businesses balance the benefits of automation while also addressing potential societal challenges?

It has always been assumed that more educated people will be harder to replace by technology. AI has changed this paradigm. The threat of technology is greater to educated people in senior positions than to young non-educated people. Imagine a world where artificial intelligence manages processes within organizations rather than people. Imagine a world in which the most wanted employees are those who are adept with AI tools and can choose the right tool - this would give advantage to people who are quick learners and with adaptable skills, likely young people. This change may have long-term effects on social mobility.

The global marketplace is becoming increasingly interconnected. How can businesses effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by international markets and cross-cultural communication?

In a recent McKinsey report, AI will have a significant impact on all industries around the world, but especially on the banking, high tech, and life sciences industries. In retail and consumer packaged goods, McKinsey estimates a $400-$660 billion impact annually.

Having said that, projections can be changed since we are inventing new things every day. Therefore, I believe the best approach is to keep your eye on the ball, and be aware of new developments in your field.

Artificial intelligence will be everywhere, even in human therapy. Being more human is one of our greatest advantages as humans. During these times of alienation, compassion and human tenderness are in great demand.

AI has the potential to greatly enhance productivity and efficiency. What are some specific ways in which Indian businesses can leverage AI to achieve these benefits?

While AI offers numerous opportunities, there are concerns about job displacement. How

Do you see the workforce dynamics changing in India with the adoption of AI, and what can businesses do to mitigate these challenges?

In your opinion, what are the key challenges that businesses might face in adopting and implementing AI, and how can they overcome them?

The Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, one of the leading global institutions, has made a good example of implementing the change. They recently renamed the Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Management to: "Faculty of Data and Decision Making." This example illustrates well what the human advantage will be in the coming years.

There is an important question to ask about human values. We should all ask ourselves, what professional value do I have when the world's smartest assistant is available to all? It is uncertain whether the value is the traditional value that we know and love. Artificial intelligence is now a decision support tool, even for people with a lot of knowledge, like doctors, lecturers, engineers, and lawyers.  Over time, it will become perfected and decide for itself. It will then be necessary to redefine human value.

People are already learning to operate the tools independently rather than waiting for the official training programs of organizations.  This means that even HR departments must rethink their goals.

As I always say, it's all about a new mindset and a new set of skills. The mindset we are talking about is geared towards staying relevant in a world whose standards are constantly changing. It means thinking differently about reality, about myself in a world that is fully automated.  Businesses have to think differently in terms of business models, products, and management processes.

How do you see AI impacting the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and what opportunities does it present for aspiring entrepreneurs?

It wasn't that long ago when I made an interesting prediction: "The Future of Pieces". The prediction referred to a trend in which products and services are broken down into small pieces. A good example is the story on Instagram, or a short e-learning lesson.  Artificial intelligence has extended this trend to the workplace. A phenomenon called “overemployment” has been occurring in recent months. Using artificial intelligence, an 8-hour job can be completed in four hours - the 100% job has been cut into pieces, and done remotely.

As a result, people can work two or three jobs for different employers at the same time. In addition to creating opportunities for employers by recruiting professionals in different models, it also creates opportunities for future solutions. Apart from AI, which is the most significant subject related to the future of business, what other major influences you think entrepreneurs have to be aware of while planning their future growth?

Currently, I believe there are two main drivers pushing humans. Although they seem to be opposites, they are related. Firstly, the automatic processes fueled by technology make us more passive and willing to do or work less. Additionally, I believe that activism is getting stronger in recent years. People are asking themselves how they want to improve their lives, and this trend crosses fields: it's not just about sustainability or social issues, but how do I want to work? How do I choose the organisation where I want to work? Does my organisation contribute to the world in a positive way? As well as how I can influence the future of my country for the better. A business prospect can be generated in these two areas.