The arrival of agents introduces a new paradigm in which humans act as supervisors and AI makes most decisions autonomously based on a defined goal
Artificial intelligence is reshaping the relationship between people and machines. For years, the relationship has been clearly defined: machines do the mechanical things, while people do the thinking and decision making.
However, over the last several years, algorithms and data have given us the tools to begin delegating decision-making tasks to machines. That division is only accelerating with the recent development of agentic AI.
An AI agent is a software system that uses artificial intelligence to make autonomous decisions and take actions to achieve a set of objectives.
Gartner predicts that by 2028, 33 percent of business software will include agentic AI. According to the analyst firm, this will enable autonomous decisions in 15 percent of day-to-day work tasks.
This new technology promises to revolutionize productivity by automating routine tasks and offering intelligent insights. Streamlining operations and enhancing decision-making lay the groundwork for efficient and knowledge-driven economies.
Indeed, it could serve as a pillar of ambitious economic reforms such as Saudi Vision 2030 and the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031.
But amidst the buzz, there remain questions about how humans and AI agents can collaborate. Before we can start realizing gains, it’s critical to understand some of the existing collaboration dynamics between humans and AI.
The evolution of human-AI collaboration
The relationship between humans and AI advances as our knowledge deepens and AI models become more capable.
Typical collaboration revolves around AI providing outcomes that follow human guidance. We see this particularly in customer support, where AI tools generate data analysis, personalized suggestions and resolutions for customers.
The technical support paradigm is shifting to increasingly intelligent, predictive AI capabilities that can self-heal technical issues. The arrival of agents introduces a new paradigm in which humans act as supervisors and AI makes most decisions autonomously based on a defined goal.
One example is supply chain management: AI systems handle inventory tracking, forecasting and adjustments, while humans focus on strategic planning.
Building trust in human-AI collaboration
Collaboration opportunities are exciting, but success depends on trust. To increase trust, companies must ensure that AI processes are transparent and provide explanations for how AI reaches its conclusions.
Transparency gives humans more confidence in AI systems and their ability to reach defined goals. Equally important is the clear delineation of roles and responsibilities in human-AI ecosystems.
When individuals know how AI complements their work, it creates a sense of stability and purpose. This clarity paves the way for efficient and accountable human-AI partnerships.
AI enhances industries like sales, marketing, and engineering by streamlining tasks such as customer insights and design optimization, enabling humans to focus on strategic roles.
Successful human-AI collaboration relies on transparency and well-defined expectations, driving transformational outcomes.
The role of humans as orchestrators
Despite AI’s technical capabilities, humans are at the heart of enabling its potential. As agentic AI rises, so does the need for humans to shift from doers to orchestrators, setting goals and defining objectives for AI systems.
For example, with agentic AI, a human defines the desired goal, offers nuanced insights, and makes strategic adjustments based on AI-generated outcomes.
These actions require judgment and expertise that software cannot achieve on its own. As the workforce makes this shift, modern and flexible infrastructure must keep pace.
Now is the time for businesses to explore agentic AI and its impact on IT architecture to ensure human-machine partnerships are able to reach their full potential.
Unlocking the power of human-AI synergy
We believe extraordinary gains are made when human ingenuity meets technology. By integrating agentic AI into workflows, individuals and organizations can achieve greater levels of productivity and creativity.
PwC predicts that AI adoption could boost the Middle East’s GDP by an additional 8.3 percent by 2035, mainly through productivity gains.
Creative professionals are already using AI to bring their vision to life faster. Businesses are using intelligent systems to deliver exceptional and intuitive customer experiences. These advancements remind us that the true potential of AI lies in amplifying human capacity.
By investing in human-AI partnerships from both a technology and a skilling perspective, businesses can position themselves as leaders in innovation and adaptability. Let’s participate in shaping a future where technology and humanity unlock new opportunities together.
Mohammed Amin is Senior Vice President – CEEMETA at Dell Technologies.
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