Summary
A study highlighted that AI-generated content, referred to as "workslop," is cluttering workplaces with low-quality documents, leading to inefficiencies and wasted time. The research surveyed 1,150 U.S. desk workers who reported spending significant time managing such content, which affects productivity and workplace perception. This phenomenon demonstrates that AI isn't always boosting efficiency as expected.
Key Facts
- "Workslop" is a term for low-quality AI-generated content like memos, reports, and emails.
- Researchers from Stanford University and BetterUp found that 40% of surveyed desk workers encountered workslop in the past month.
- On average, workers spent nearly 2 hours dealing with each instance of workslop.
- The study estimated that workslop could cost large organizations over $9 million annually in lost productivity.
- More than 50% of survey respondents felt annoyed by workslop, while 38% were confused.
- About half of the surveyed workers viewed senders of workslop as less creative and reliable.
- 18% of workers who use AI admitted to sending unhelpful, low-quality content.
- The survey highlighted that tech, healthcare, and professional services report the most workslop.
