Workers still spend time on manual, low-value tasks despite the fact that more than three quarters of companies have increased their investments in technology.
Docusign’s Digital Maturity Report for 2024 shows that employees waste almost two days of work per week (12,6 hours) on tasks with little or no value, costing UK companies PS270bn each year.
The report revealed that while 78% companies increased their investments in digital tools during the last 12 months, over half (54%) of employees aren’t using them to improve efficiency.
Docusign also noted that there is a difference in perceptions about digital maturity. Docusign said that more than 8 out of 10 employees consider themselves to be digitally mature compared to 47% employers.
Employees could leave if employers do not embrace new technology to reduce low-value work. The number of employees considering leaving their employers due to manual tasks is up from 33% to 41%.
Positively, it is encouraging to see that more and more companies are looking for ways to improve their productivity by bridging the digital skills gap. Nearly three quarters (72%) of companies reported a skills shortage, up from 69% the previous year.
Artificial intelligence, data analysis and digital security are the most common areas where skills gaps exist.
53% of those who have skills gaps within their organization say that the lack of talent is having a material impact on their business, and their ability to achieve operational goals. Over half of those who have skills gaps in their organisation said that talent shortages are a major barrier to innovation.
Docusign reports that 35% of businesses will increase their investment in AI and machine-learning. Only 11% of companies have a person who is responsible for AI. In most cases, this is a chief information officer or chief technology officer.
The company says that to address skill gaps, many companies are turning to “quiet hire” to find ways to cover tasks and replace people without increasing headcount.
It is common for businesses to use generative AI tools like Chat GPT in order to increase efficiency.
Ronan Copeland is the group vice president and general manager of Docusign for EMEA. He said that AI has become a critical component of digital transformation. It arrived at a crucial moment to help organisations tackle two major issues, the skills shortage and loss of productivity due to repetitive tasks. This leads to an increase in workplace disengagement.
To capitalise AI’s potential, and to bridge the gap between the expectations of staff and the reality of their jobs, which currently makes people consider quitting, companies need to focus urgently on upskilling or reskilling in AI.
This can help to bridge the gap between digital maturity, productivity, and technology investment.
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