How Companies Are Managing AI Agents Alongside Human Teams
As AI agents become integral to business operations, managers must navigate the challenges of leading hybrid teams of humans and non-human workers.
AI agents are no longer just tools—they’re becoming active contributors in workplaces, handling tasks like summarizing research, drafting reports, and analyzing data. As these systems take on roles once reserved for junior staff, companies face the challenge of managing hybrid teams where humans and AI collaborate.
The Rise of AI Agents in the Workplace
AI agents, such as those powered by IBM’s watsonx Orchestrate, are now embedded in core business processes. For example, in HR, they match resumes to job descriptions; in procurement, they scan contracts for compliance risks. While humans still make final decisions, the grunt work is increasingly automated.
IBM Research has piloted multi-agent teams for complex tasks like large-scale document analysis. In one experiment, AI agents analyzed thousands of regulatory documents in hours—a task that previously took weeks. "AI agents help us build faster and focus on high-value work," said Kunal Sawarkar, a Distinguished Engineer at IBM.
Challenges of Hybrid Teams
Despite their efficiency, AI agents lack human traits like asking for feedback or explaining their reasoning. "Managers need plans to evaluate performance and accountability for both AI and humans," said Mindy Shoss, a Psychology Professor at the University of Central Florida.
Stephen Casper, an MIT researcher, cautions that AI reliability remains a hurdle. "Even if AI handles 90% of a job, the last 10% is the hardest to automate," he said. Delegation will grow, but discretion will stay human.
Evolving Management Practices
Columbia Business School Professor Tianyi Peng advises a dual-track approach: cautious implementation but aggressive experimentation. "The goal is progressive integration, not mass replacement," he said. Metrics must now include cost-effectiveness, matching AI complexity to the task.
The Future of Work
As AI agents proliferate, companies are rewriting the playbook on teamwork. "We’re designing the system as we go," Peng said. The future lies in orchestrating workflows where humans and AI collaborate seamlessly—but with humans firmly in control.
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About the Author
Dr. Lisa Kim
AI Ethics Researcher
Leading expert in AI ethics and responsible AI development with 13 years of research experience. Former member of Microsoft AI Ethics Committee, now provides consulting for multiple international AI governance organizations. Regularly contributes AI ethics articles to top-tier journals like Nature and Science.