Generative AI boosts worker productivity by 33%: St. Louis Fed study
MISSOURI, UNITED STATES — A recent study by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis reveals that workers who use generative AI experience a significant boost in productivity. On average, their productivity increases by 33% for each hour they utilize this technology.
The report, authored by Alexander Bick, Adam Blandin, and David Deming, emphasizes that generative AI is “not just an occasional tool for its users but also an integral part of their work routines.”
Widespread adoption across industries
Surveys conducted in August and November 2024 showed that 9% of U.S. workers aged 18-64 use generative AI every workday, while 14% use it at least once a week but not daily. These workers reported that AI assisted them during 6% to nearly one-fourth of their work hours.
The study also highlighted that generative AI saves workers substantial time, with 33.5% of daily users reporting savings of four hours or more per week.
“Workers are on average 33% more productive each hour they use generative AI,” the researchers noted, pointing to a substantial enhancement in performance directly linked to AI usage.
This technology also presents notable time savings across various industries, with information services and computer/mathematics fields reporting the highest benefits.
Strategic integration of AI
Business leaders are advised to view AI not as a replacement for human talent but as a tool that enhances talent efficiency.
Steven Kirz, an operational excellence senior partner at West Monroe, suggests treating AI as an “intern” that handles tasks like research and summarizing meeting notes, freeing employees for more critical tasks.
Accenture recommends that organizations redefine productivity beyond traditional measures, focusing on innovation and value creation to maximize AI’s potential. The company previously released a report indicating that generative AI could impact 44% of all working hours across industries in the U.S., unlock greater productivity across 900 different types of jobs, and create at least $8 trillion in global economic value.
