The introduction of LLMs (large language models) such as GPT has transformed modern business. The development of this technology has pushed many industries toward automation and has clearly impacted the situation of knowledge workers. How has their productivity changed, and do they need to fear job loss? What is GPT and what is it used for?
GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is an advanced language model based on the Transformer neural network architecture. Thanks to machine learning algorithms, it is capable of analyzing vast sets of text to identify patterns and linguistic dependencies. Its most well-known variant, ChatGPT produced by OpenAI, has already proven its utility in many branches of
business – from marketing and finance to the broad IT sector. The primary function of GPT is to generate text, fill in gaps in sentences, and refine them based on provided context and prompts. Additionally, GPT can generate code based on provided instructions. It can also be used to support customer service processes. However, it is worth remembering that while GPT can support daily work (and already does so today), due to its limitations (e.g., time-limited database, the probability of misunderstanding detailed contexts, etc.), it will not fully replace human skills and intelligence. But it is worth asking – will it really not?
How do knowledge workers use GPT?
GPT has influenced the daily lives of many professions. Because it can serve as a tool for processing large amounts of information, it can assist employees in decision-making. This is useful in data analysis, finance, or marketing. In the latter case, GPT is also used as a tool to support creative and design processes. Marketers use it to generate ideas, supplement content, or devise marketing strategies. ChatGPT excels at automating routine tasks. This is evident in the example of AI and machine learning-based solutions in
e-commerce. Their application allows for the robotization of the most tedious tasks, such as answering repetitive customer questions, handling complaints, or controlling inventory. However, it is worth remembering that GPT is only a tool. Knowledge workers still play a key role in utilizing and interpreting the results obtained. It is also worth noting that the use of GPT varies depending on the industry, role, and individual preferences.
How has their productivity changed?
In 2023, there was both a rapid development of AI technology and a real explosion of interest in it. Artificial intelligence has become widespread in workplaces, and the most “affected” have been knowledge workers – programmers, analysts, financiers, and marketers. These professions are most at risk of job loss or significant downsizing, but another scenario is also possible – AI will not lead to mass layoffs, but to a significant increase in productivity. The impact of GPT on the productivity of knowledge workers depends on many factors, such as the nature of the work, human skills, and the effective use of the tool. Despite these differences, even today (as of mid-2023), significant progress in work efficiency is visible. Research conducted by
MIT shows that ChatGPT improved the productivity of knowledge workers by 37%. Artificial intelligence has also had a huge impact on the creative industry at large. In the case of marketing, AI is used, for example, to automate email campaigns or design landing pages. A report prepared by
McKinsey indicates that marketing could be (and in some sense already is) one of the most rapidly automating industries. The use of AI has also begun to be considered in art and entertainment. Beyond generating stories or images, ideas have emerged to use it for generating
dialogue in video games.
Are jobs at risk?
The use of AI-based tools like GPT can affect certain aspects of knowledge work. It is a fact that GPT can be used to automate repetitive tasks previously performed by knowledge workers. This does not automatically mean that their jobs are at risk. Instead, they can focus on tasks requiring creativity, intuition, and interpersonal skills. It is certain, however, that artificial intelligence will lead to an evolution in the nature of work. Instead of performing repetitive tasks, knowledge workers will be more focused on managing processes, analyzing results, or creative problem-solving. GPT can support them in these processes. This is confirmed by a report prepared by the
World Economic Forum – it indicates that by 2028, 23% of jobs worldwide will be transformed due to the implementation of artificial intelligence. Knowledge workers will need to acquire new skills to effectively use AI at work. This refers not only to technical competencies (e.g., programming basics) but above all to the ability to think critically. GPT can also open up new opportunities and fields of work. According to a report prepared in 2020 by the
WEF, AI could lead to the creation of 97 million jobs worldwide. This means that knowledge workers will be able to move into new areas. The use of AI-based tools should be interpreted and implemented as an enhancement to the work of knowledge workers, not as a replacement for them. This does not change the fact that the ability to adapt, be flexible, and develop competencies
can help maintain the relevance and value of knowledge workers in the future. 
