In a recent interview with the Toronto Star, Steve Hasker, the CEO of Thomson Reuters, elaborated on the evolving role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in the journalism industry and beyond. Hasker discussed how AI is anticipated to fundamentally alter the work landscape for professionals in various sectors, including journalism, law, and finance.
Hasker articulated that while there is a widespread concern about job displacement due to AI advancements, he believes that professionals will not be replaced outright by AI systems. Rather, the risk lies in individuals who utilise AI effectively to enhance their capabilities. "We believe professionals will not be replaced by AI but might be by people using AI," he stated, highlighting the importance of human involvement in news production processes. He underscored one of Thomson Reuters' core principles: "a human being must take accountability for each piece of news," which ensures that every news story produced is anchored in human oversight.
Looking ahead, Hasker predicts significant changes in how professionals across various fields, including journalism, will work. He anticipates that within the next three to five years, the integration of AI will become commonplace, with every journalist using AI assistants for research, fact verification, generating story ideas, and even creating preliminary drafts of articles. This vision extends beyond journalism, impacting sectors such as law, tax, audit, and accounting. Hasker noted, "the same goes for lawyers, tax, audit and accounting professionals, maybe even people like me," suggesting that the ripple effects of AI adoption will be felt across multiple industries.
As organisations increasingly adopt new technologies, the implications for business practices are vast. Companies are expected to stay ahead of the curve by incorporating AI tools to augment human expertise, enhance productivity, and improve efficiency in operations. The insights from Hasker point towards a future where AI acts as a crucial ally in the workforce, rather than a competing force that diminishes the need for skilled professionals.
The Toronto Star's coverage of Hasker's perspective underscores the ongoing discussions surrounding the integration of AI technologies within professional environments, indicating a transformative period ahead for various sectors as they navigate the changing dynamics of technology-driven work.
Source: Noah Wire Services