SoF CLIPS | Is AI gonna take our jobs? Find out here with JMI, Senior Partner at BCG

Strategy of Finance

In a recent podcast episode, Rohit Agarwal and Jean-Manuel Izaret (JMI) dived into a pressing question on many minds today: "Is AI going to take our jobs?" Their conversation illuminated an often-overlooked aspect of AI's impact on employment – pricing models.

The Current AI Landscape

AI technologies have undeniably transformed various sectors, performing tasks that were once exclusively human domains. With the advent of advanced AI models like ChatGPT-4, which can mimic human conversation and perform numerous functions, the anxiety surrounding job displacement is understandable. However, JMI offers a nuanced perspective by examining how these technologies are priced.

Two Primary AI Pricing Models

Per Token Model:

This model is commonly associated with AI services like ChatGPT, where usage is measured and billed based on the number of tokens (or units of text) processed. This model doesn't directly correlate to replacing human jobs but rather complements human capabilities by offering an efficient way to handle large volumes of data and tasks.

Per User Model:

Seen in AI tools like Copilot, this model charges based on the number of users. According to JMI, this pricing structure inherently supports human workers rather than replacing them.

The rationale is simple:

if AI were designed to replace humans entirely, the user base would shrink, leading to reduced revenue for AI companies. Therefore, as long as AI is priced per user, its role is primarily to assist and augment human productivity.

The Future:

Task-Based Pricing JMI predicts a significant shift in AI's role in the workforce when pricing models evolve to focus on tasks or outcomes rather than users. This change would signal AI's capability to fully replace specific human tasks, charging for the efficiency and productivity achieved without human intervention. In this scenario, AI wouldn't just enhance human work; it would render certain human roles redundant.

Implications for the Workforce

The current per-user pricing model suggests that AI is not yet at a point where it can entirely replace human labor across the board. However, even with this model, some level of job displacement is inevitable as companies seek efficiencies and cost savings. The key takeaway from JMI's insights is the importance of monitoring AI pricing strategies as indicators of broader shifts in the labor market.

Preparing for Change

Businesses and employees must stay vigilant and adaptable in this evolving landscape. Understanding AI pricing models can provide a clearer picture of how and when certain job roles might be at risk. Emphasizing continuous learning and skill development will be crucial for workers to remain relevant and competitive.

In conclusion, while AI continues to advance and integrate into various sectors, the immediate threat of widespread job displacement may be overstated, given current pricing models. However, as these models evolve, so too will the impact of AI on the workforce. Staying informed and prepared will be essential for navigating this dynamic and ever-changing landscape.