UK Could Save £200bn Through AI Adoption, Research Finds
The UK workforce’s adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) could potentially save the country £200bn, according to research by Public First and Google. This significant finding is part of the AI Works initiative, which explored productivity gains through AI usage in various work settings.
The study involved pilots that demonstrated a substantial increase in AI usage after just a few hours of training. Among trade union members, AI usage tripled, while it doubled among small businesses and teachers. This rapid adoption was found to unlock significant growth potential for the UK economy. Public First’s modeling indicated a 10:1 return on investment for AI training, far surpassing previous initiatives like the Lifetime Skills Guarantee, which returned investment at a rate of 1:2.
The pilots were conducted in collaboration with educational multi-academy trusts, Enterprise Nation’s network of small businesses, and Community Union, involving 1,700 participants across various sectors and organization sizes. The research found that AI training not only improved productivity but also fundamentally reshaped participants’ perspectives on AI’s role in society. Improved workplace adoption is likely to positively impact public sentiment about AI, according to the study’s authors.
Participants reported gaining a sense of agency over AI technology and becoming more confident in integrating it into their daily routines after seeing its practical applications firsthand. However, the study also identified ongoing impediments to AI adoption. Despite training, concerns shifted from lack of knowledge to practical issues such as privacy protocols and organizational policies.
Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology Peter Kyle commented on the AI Works initiative, stating, “We will support workers to develop the skills they need for jobs in and with AI, so that all parts of society can benefit from this technology.” The study recommends developing practical policies and accreditation systems for modular AI training to facilitate wider adoption.
The findings come as the UK government continues to develop its AI strategy. In January, Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled an AI opportunities action plan aimed at revolutionizing public services. The plan emphasizes the need for the government to support the AI industry and move quickly to capitalize on AI opportunities in a competitive global environment.
While the study highlights the potential benefits of AI adoption, it also notes ongoing concerns about job displacement. A survey by the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) found that one in four workers worry about AI leading to job losses. Trades Union Congress general secretary Paul Nowak emphasized the need for businesses and public sector officials to consult with workers and unions when implementing AI technology.
The research suggests that workers are looking for clear guidelines on AI usage. Businesses and public sector leaders are urged to develop positively framed policies outlining permitted AI tools and applications. The study also recommends that Skills England support a new accreditation system for modular training, recognizing short, effective training modules through micro-credits.
As the UK moves forward with its AI agenda, the AI Works initiative provides valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges of AI adoption in the workforce. With appropriate training and policies in place, AI has the potential to drive significant economic benefits while reshaping the nature of work in the UK.
