New figures from employment expert Acas show that more than a third of employers think the main benefit of AI will be increased productivity.

In a survey of more than 1,000 senior decision-makers in the UK, Acas found 35% believe AI tech will result in improvements to workplace productivity, well ahead of any other perceived benefit.

While 12% believed adopting AI would give their business a competitive edge, 11% said it could help them do more with fewer staff, with a further 11% saying it would boost knowledge-sharing, and 10% reporting it could help cut costs.

Interestingly, another 11% said that there were no benefits to AI in the workplace, a surprisingly high number given the furore surrounding the technology’s widespread rollout.

“Our survey shows optimism amongst some employers about the potential for AI to boost their productivity, decrease costs and increase knowledge,” said Acas chief executive Niall Mackenzie.

“Used responsibly, AI has the potential to empower workers and support the delivery of different workplace tasks.”

With AI fast becoming a core component of many UK workplaces, there is a growing need for more detailed guidance around its use, with Acas saying it stands ready to influence the debate and help inform future policy making.

To that end, the organisation provided some tips for employers looking to capitalize on the use of AI in the workplace.

Acas said that employers should begin by developing clear policies regarding the use of AI, being sure to consult employees and any representatives on its introduction. It’s important in those instances for employers to be aware that if there is an expectation certain roles should begin using AI, that could mean a change of terms and conditions.

Added to that, employers investing in AI should consider highlighting how the technology can improve staff roles and reassure workers that human involvement will still be needed.

Staff members should also be given adequate training on how to get the best out of AI, with Acas reminding firms that AI should be cited when used, and that outputs should always be checked for accuracy, tone and bias.

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Lastly, Acas said that as data privacy policies apply to the use of AI, it is wise to check with IT teams for approved platforms, with employees encouraged to be careful entering any information that is business sensitive or personal into public tools.

“Businesses should be proactive in having early discussions about AI with staff, trade unions, and other worker representatives to understand the potential implications and ensure its adoption is well-informed,” continued Mackenzie.

“A good clear policy will help businesses stay safe, transparent and reassure staff that they are valued.”

Acas is raising awareness around widespread AI adoption in UK workplaces ahead of its Annual Conference today (15 May) that will look at conflict, productivity, growth and examine the types of new roles and opportunities AI could create.