Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly advancing and changing how we work and live. One hot topic is what impact AI could have on middle management. Will AI replace middle managers or augment and assist them in their roles?
To set some context, what is a middle manager, and what do they do. Middle managers oversee the work of first-line managers and employees. They typically have a broad range of responsibilities, including budgeting, planning, and resources, as well as making decisions and solving problems.
AI has the potential to automate many of the tasks a middle manager performs. For example, AI can analyse data, identify patterns, and make predictions. This can help managers make better decisions and improve their efficiency. AI can also automate routine tasks, such as scheduling and report generation, which would free-up managers to focus on more important work.
We should note AI is not a human manager replacement. Not for now, anyway! That said, AI can assist managers in their work. But it cannot replace human intuition, creativity, or decision-making abilities, all qualities essential for effective management. Managers will still be needed to interpret data and insights provided by AI. Their value will come from being able to make decisions based on that information.
AI can help managers become better leaders by providing real-time information and actionable insights, allowing humans to make more informed decisions.
The AI-augmented middle manager will work more efficiently and effectively. As such, for now, at least middle managers will continue to be an essential part of the corporate landscape, but their roles will need to change and adapt with the integration of AI.
AI is not replacing human managers, but it might reduce the headcount!