Generative Microapps Set to Reshape the Knowledge Worker Landscape

What’s going on:     

Gartner, a research and consulting firm, predicts that “50% of office workers in Fortune 100 companies will be AI-augmented in one form or another” by 2026.   

Generative microapps are being developed to act as a proxy between users and large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT or Bard, according to a Q&A report with Nader Henein, VP Analyst at Gartner. These microapps aim to give a productivity boost to knowledge workers and improve the quality of work produced while minimizing risks typically associated with generative artificial intelligence. Microapps can reportedly achieve this through mitigating three key risks: accuracy, access control and devaluation.  

Why it matters:     

Gartner predicts that generative AI and the integration of generative microapps within the workforce has the ability to enhance employees’ capabilities and boost productivity, so much so that the technology will record a widespread adoption in the coming years.  

Henein predicts the emergence of a flourishing industry dedicated to the development of specialized generative microapps. These generative microapps are predicted to be utilized by the workforce in everyday applications such as word processors, email, and conferencing tools. Additionally, these microapps will also assist organizations in enhancing job design, optimizing task allocation, and improving resource management, according to Gartner. 

How it’ll impact the future:       

As generative microapps become more prevalent in the workforce, they will change the way organizations assign tasks, develop jobs, and streamline work. The widespread adoption of generative microapps will likely lead to a shift in the skills required for knowledge workers.  

As AI-augmented employees become more common, there may be an increased demand for professionals who can effectively utilize and manage these technologies. Additionally, while generative AI will likely eliminate thousands of jobs through automation, the development of specialized generative microapps might potentially create new job opportunities within a number of industries.