The use of AI in workplace software is becoming increasingly popular among software providers and start-ups, with many claiming it can combat burnout, reduce stress levels, and increase productivity and engagement. However, some workers are concerned about the privacy implications of this technology and fear being monitored by what they view as a "Big Brother" figure. Despite this, research has shown that a portion of workers are willing to accept monitoring in exchange for support in finding information. Companies like Gong are using AI to help salespeople and managers improve their performance by providing valuable feedback and data-driven insights. While some workers may initially be resistant to this technology, many have found that it can greatly improve their work and performance.
Fierce, a corporate training company, has introduced a coaching tool called the Pulse app which tracks workers' heart rate variability, using AI to identify when they have entered "fight or flight" mode. The app integrates with employees' calendars to establish the situations that may have caused stress levels to rise. A chatbot or live coach offers advice once a stressful event has occurred and the data is aggregated for managers to view, rather than targeting individuals. Pulse offers help to workers who are experiencing stress at inopportune moments such as while sleeping or taking a holiday. However, some feel that too much monitoring by employers may damage trust between them and their employees. The AI platform Glue is also working in this area, using traditional surveys, workplace apps, and HR systems to assess employee engagement in an attempt to forestall dissatisfaction and attrition.
Glue uses AI, including ChatGPT, to detect signals of employee connectivity, generating scores that take into account team interaction, leadership interaction, and the worker’s sense of belonging. The platform's techniques include automated employee introductions and coordinating virtual events using AI. Additionally, it offers personalized suggestions for disconnected employees, such as scheduling a coffee meeting based on their availability. According to Ramirez, Glue's VP, detecting a change in an employee's connection with the team can signal brewing troubles. However, Erin O’Dell, a Seattle-based aesthetician and business owner, prefers that managers use human social skills to address workers' needs. Julie Mueller, an HR professional, supports the use of AI if it can help employees ramp up faster or achieve better results, but worries about workers feeling policed. All companies that use such tools claim that they are transparent in their data-sharing practices and that they safeguard sensitive individual data. People must be aware of how their data is being used and the degree of control they have over it when considering workplace software said West of Brookings Institute.