HBS Managing the Future of Work
Erik Brynjolfsson on how AI is rewriting the rules of the economy
Mar 26, 2025
Erik Brynjolfsson, a Stanford economist and AI expert, shares invaluable insights on AI's disruptive role in the economy and workforce. He discusses how generative AI is reshaping productivity and job functions, emphasizing the balance between human skills and machine efficiency. Erik also highlights the need for innovative governance to harness AI safely while capturing the value of digital goods. He unveils projects aimed at redefining GDP metrics, showcasing the urgency of adapting to AI's transformative impact on labor and economic structures.
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Quick takeaways
- Generative AI significantly boosts productivity across job roles, especially benefiting less experienced workers who see larger gains compared to seasoned employees.
- The advent of AI necessitates a reevaluation of traditional economic metrics like GDP to accurately capture the value derived from digital goods and services.
Deep dives
AI's Impact on Worker Productivity
Generative AI is shown to significantly enhance productivity across various job roles. A study involving call center workers revealed that those utilizing a large language model experienced a productivity increase of about 14%, with some reporting gains as high as 35%. This technology not only improved individual efficiency but also led to higher customer satisfaction and reduced employee turnover. Interestingly, less experienced workers benefited more compared to their seasoned counterparts, indicating that AI may help level the playing field in workplaces.
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