The Next Big Disruption: Are You Ready for AI’s Impact on the Workplace?
This post is authored by Ross Leibowitz, a seasoned expert with over 25 years of experience in real estate and workplace solutions. As a founder of Centerstone Software and former CTO of Manhattan Software, Ross has spent his career building and innovating workplace products. As Tango’s Senior Director of Workplace Products, he continues to drive product strategy and shares his unique perspective on how AI is reshaping the modern workplace.
Six years ago, the pandemic fundamentally changed how we work and think about the workplace. We are still navigating the complexities of hybrid work and return-to-office strategies, but a key lesson learned is that we weren’t fully prepared for such a massive disruption. As a result, we were forced into a reactionary mode.
Today, another major disruption is on the horizon, and this one is far easier to anticipate: the widespread integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the workplace. A report from the CEO of Anthropic suggests that AI could impact up to 30% of white-collar jobs. The time to prepare for this “next tsunami” is now, not when it’s already here. The goal is to move from a reactionary mindset to a proactive, anticipatory one.
The Evolving Role of Facility Management (FM) Professionals
AI is poised to transform the daily tasks of FM professionals. Routine jobs like laying out floor plans, collecting utilization data, and analyzing information will be automated by AI. AI systems can provide predictive analytics and insights that were once out of reach. This shift isn’t about job elimination but rather a redefinition of the FM role. By handling the mundane, AI frees up time for professionals to focus on higher-value activities, such as understanding and anticipating the core needs of the business.
In a growing company, for example, AI could analyze historical data to help anticipate and plan for a future acquisition. As an FM professional, you can use these insights to get a much stronger understanding of what’s possible and what could be. The new role becomes one of using technology to react in minutes rather than weeks.
The Indispensable Human Element
While AI is a powerful tool, it’s not a replacement for human expertise. At its core, an FM professional’s job is about building effective spaces for people, and that requires a human touch.
An AI system can process data to suggest moving two teams together, but it won’t know about their history of conflict or personal dynamics. The human element is indispensable for navigating these nuances, providing the empathy and understanding that technology can’t replicate. AI gives us the insights, but people are the ones who build the connections and solve the complex, human problems that make a workplace truly successful.
What’s Next?
The AI revolution is here, and we can’t stop it. The key is to embrace these tools and learn how to use them to your advantage.
To help you get started on this journey, this post kicks off a new series on AI in the Workplace. In the coming months, I’ll share practical applications of AI, highlight key takeaways from major industry events, and provide insights for facility management and workplace leaders.
Don’t miss a deeper dive into this topic at IFMA World Workplace from September 17-19. Join my presentation, “From Data to Decisions: How AI is Powering the Next Generation Workplace,” on Wednesday, September 17, from 12:45 PM to 1:15 PM.
I’m eager to hear how these tools are impacting you. What are your biggest concerns, and what steps are you taking to get started on your own AI journey?