Professionals Worldwide Anticipate Transformative Impact of AI on Their Work
A recent survey by Thomson Reuters reveals a growing belief in the transformative power of artificial intelligence among professionals globally, with emerging economies showing the highest levels of trust in the technology.
According to the Future of Professionals Report 2024, an overwhelming 77% of professionals now believe AI will have a transformative or high impact on their work within the next five years[1]. The survey, which included 2,200 professionals and C-level executives from over 50 countries, indicates that an average of 56% of all professional work is expected to incorporate new AI-powered technologies in the near future.
Emerging Markets Embrace AI
The report highlights a significant trend: professionals in emerging economies are demonstrating greater trust in AI compared to their counterparts in developed nations. This pattern suggests that regions with younger, growing populations may be positioning themselves to leverage AI technologies more readily.
This aligns with broader demographic shifts projected by McKinsey, which indicates that by 2050, "later wave" regions (developing countries) could account for more than two-thirds of all hours worked globally[4]. Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa alone might represent 18% of global work hours by that time, while China's share could drop from 26% to 18%.
Shifting Economic Power
The embrace of AI in emerging economies comes amid projections of changing global economic dynamics. McKinsey forecasts that countries in developing regions will account for more than half of global consumption for at least the next quarter century[4]. India and Emerging Asia are projected to represent 30% of global consumption at purchasing-power parity, up from just 12% in 1997.
This shift presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses worldwide as they adapt to serve growing markets with different needs and preferences.
AI Integration Across Professions
Thomson Reuters' research demonstrates that professionals across various fields are preparing for significant integration of AI into their daily work. The company notes that professionals now have "a more highly developed understanding of just how extensive and fast the impact will be in the years to come"[1].
As AI technologies continue to evolve, they are expected to transform workflows, simplify complex tasks, and deliver greater value across professions.
The findings come at a time of rapid technological change, with professionals worldwide increasingly recognizing that embracing AI will be crucial to remaining competitive in future labor markets.
