Workers Doubt AI Benefits Prefer Human Skills and Fewer Apps
Workers remain skeptical of AI's role in productivity and prioritize human-centric skills while struggling with app overload.
Workforce Ambivalence Toward AI
Multiple surveys reveal persistent worker skepticism about AI's impact on productivity. Unily's "AI Reality Check" found only 20% of employees considered AI a "must-have", while 36% believed more AI adoption would have no effect on company performance. GoTo's recent report, "The Pulse of Work in 2025", highlighted this divide: 62% of employees view AI as "significantly overhyped," and 86% doubt its reliability—a stark contrast to managers (53% skeptical).
The App-Switching Productivity Drain
Excessive app-switching continues to hamper efficiency. Microsoft flagged this issue as early as 2018, followed by Zoom and Slack advocating for unified workflows. Recent data from Asana's Anatomy of Work Global Index 2023 underscores the problem:
"Work about work"—duplicated tasks, unnecessary meetings, and app juggling—consumes 58% of the workday, leaving only 9% for strategic work.
Key findings:
- 25% of workers using 16+ apps miss critical messages (vs. 8% with 1-5 apps).
- 23% report reduced focus due to app-switching.
- 26% feel less efficient with excessive apps.
While AI promises to automate workflows, workers remain cautious, adopting tools only if they solve specific pain points.
Human Skills Gain Value in the AI Era
As automation grows, employers increasingly prioritize soft skills. LinkedIn reports that 7 of the top 10 "skills on the rise" are human-centric, such as customer engagement and conflict resolution. A Microsoft/Carnegie Mellon study suggests that critical thinking may become more valuable as generative AI usage spreads, with workers who maintain skepticism producing better outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- AI skepticism persists, with workers doubting its productivity claims.
- App overload remains a major efficiency barrier.
- Human skills like adaptability and critical thinking are emerging as differentiators.
About the Author: Lisa Schmeiser is editor of No Jitter and Workspace Connect, with over two decades in tech journalism. Follow her on Twitter.
About the Author
David Chen
AI Startup Analyst
Senior analyst focusing on AI startup ecosystem with 11 years of venture capital and startup analysis experience. Former member of Sequoia Capital AI investment team, now independent analyst writing AI startup and investment analysis articles for Forbes, Harvard Business Review and other publications.