Artificial intelligence (AI) companies OpenAI and Anthropic are responding to criticism from academic studies, which claim that using their products leads to decreased productivity. In a pair of new reports, the two firms argue that workers are more efficient when using their AI tools. However, experts point out that these claims are based on biased data and lack scientific rigor.
OpenAI’s report, “The State of Enterprise AI,” found that 75% of respondents reported improved speed or quality of work with the use of ChatGPT. The company also claimed that workers saved an average of 40-60 minutes per day on professional tasks. However, experts note that this data is not specific and may be cherry-picked to support the firm’s marketing goals.
Anthropic’s report, which found that using their AI assistant Claude cut down work time by 80%, has similar limitations. The company admits that these numbers may overstate productivity effects and do not account for human time spent on tasks beyond the conversation with the AI assistant.
The AI industry is pushing back against criticism from academia, citing concerns about the impact of data center expansion on the environment. Rising public fear and outrage over data center health risks and electricity prices are also contributing to the debate.
However, experts argue that the lack of independent reviews and transparent methodology in these reports undermines their credibility. The industry’s reliance on biased data and self-serving claims raises questions about its commitment to scientific rigor and real-world applications.
As the AI industry continues to grow, it is essential to consider the broader implications of its products and services. With the rise of data center expansion, copper shortages, and rising electricity prices, the industry must prioritize sustainability and transparency in its operations.
Source: https://www.tomshardware.com/tech-industry/artificial-intelligence/research-commissioned-by-openai-and-anthropic-claims-that-workers-are-more-efficient-when-using-ai-up-to-one-hour-saved-on-average-as-companies-make-bid-to-maintain-enterprise-ai-spending