Arvind Karunakaran studies the intersections of work, AI, and organizational behavior. He says AI can enhance speed and productivity in the short run, yet degrade skills over time. But it is in organizational power dynamics where AI has had its most marked impact, he says, telling host Russ Altman about situations in law firms where AI has fostered tension between paralegals and junior attorneys. It’s AI and the modern workplace on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything Podcast.

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Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Arvind Karunakaran

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Host Russ Altman introduces guest Arvind Karunakaran, a professor of management science and engineering at Stanford University.

(00:02:47) Productivity vs. Skill Development

The broader impact of AI on workplace productivity and the potential skill loss among workers.

(00:04:39) New Skills for the AI Era

Whether new skill sets required by AI tools are emerging or if it's still too early to tell.

(00:06:17) AI and Power Dynamics

How AI is influencing authority and power dynamics in the workplace.

(00:09:16) Challenges of Role Re-Design with AI

The need for systemic changes in job roles and organizational structures to accommodate AI.

(00:11:02) Accountability and AI in Decision-Making

The complexities of accountability when AI is involved in decision-making processes.

(00:15:14) Platforms and Power Dynamics

The role of platforms as intermediaries and their impact on authority and power dynamics.

(00:20:28) AI Experimentation in the Workplace

How organizations are experimenting with AI and the importance of trust in these processes.

(00:23:29) Rethinking Training for AI Integration

The necessity of innovative training methods to effectively integrate AI in workplace settings.

(00:25:30) Management Strategies for AI Adoption

Ways managers can approach AI integration in their organizations to foster productivity and innovation

(00:28:12) AI in Gig Work Platforms

Challenges and opportunities AI presents within gig work platforms.

(00:32:20) Conclusion

Connect With Us:

Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website

Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon

Connect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook