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New research reveals that while incorporating AI into workflows significantly boosts productivity, a widespread lack of formal training limits organisations\u2019 ability to fully harness these technological advances, highlighting the urgent need for inclusive skills development across all generations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Employees incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into their workflows are significantly enhancing productivity, saving the equivalent of a full working day each week, according to recent research by the London School of Economics’ Inclusion Initiative in partnership with Protiviti. The study, which surveyed nearly 3,000 professionals and 240 executives worldwide, quantifies this time saving as an annual productivity gain of approximately \u00a314,000 per employee.<\/p>\n
Despite these impressive benefits, a large proportion of workers remain without formal training in AI technologies. The report highlights that 68% of employees had not received any AI training in the past year, suggesting a major gap in organisational preparedness for widespread AI adoption.<\/p>\n
Where training is provided, its impact on usage and efficiency is profound. The data reveals that 93% of employees who had undergone AI training actively used AI tools in their roles, compared to just 57% of untrained workers. Furthermore, trained employees saved an average of 11 hours per week, more than double the five hours saved by their untrained colleagues. This stark contrast underlines the crucial role that tailored AI training plays in unlocking the full potential of these technologies.<\/p>\n
Dr Grace Lordan, Founding Director of The Inclusion Initiative at LSE, emphasised the strategic importance for businesses: \u201cClosing the AI training gap is one of the fastest ways to unlock measurable returns. Equipping employees with the right skills doesn\u2019t just improve individual productivity \u2014 it drives sharper decision-making, accelerates innovation and creates stronger overall performance.\u201d She also challenged assumptions about generational differences in AI adoption. The report found that training, rather than age, was the key determinant of successful AI use; for example, a Generation X employee with recent AI training outperformed a Generation Z employee without it.<\/p>\n
Generational diversity within teams also emerged as a significant factor in AI project success. Employees working in multigenerational teams were more likely to perceive their teams as productive, with 77% reporting productivity benefits, compared to 66% in less diverse groups. Dr Daniel Jolles, co-lead of the study, noted, \u201cTraining is especially important for older generations to ensure their deep business experience informs how these technologies are applied. Inclusive AI training helps bridge age-based divides, fosters collaboration, and drives superior team outcomes.\u201d<\/p>\n
Experts from Protiviti emphasise that AI is more than just an efficiency tool; it is reshaping organisational design and leadership. Fran Maxwell, Global Leader of People & Change at Protiviti, described AI as \u201ca catalyst for rethinking how organisations organise, lead and empower their people.\u201d She noted that companies integrating AI into daily workflows, redesigning roles to focus on higher-value tasks, and encouraging experimentation will gain a competitive edge. The research further indicates that inclusive AI adoption prepares businesses for ongoing technological shifts.<\/p>\n
Additionally, the study intersects with broader executive concerns about talent and risk management tied to AI deployment. Matt Duncan, Managing Director at Protiviti, highlighted findings from the firm’s 2025 Executive Perspectives on Top Risks Survey, which places AI and talent risks among the top challenges for business leaders. He argued that investing in AI skills training across generations not only boosts productivity but also enhances employee commitment and helps mitigate these organisational risks.<\/p>\n
In summary, this research from the London School of Economics and Protiviti presents a compelling case for businesses to prioritise AI training across their workforce. With measurable productivity gains and broader organisational benefits, closing the AI training gap represents a critical pathway for firms aiming to harness AI-driven transformation effectively.<\/p>\n