AI highlights the importance of the intersection between people, process, and technology, a problem for the ages, more critical than ever. 

AI is here. It’s rolling into our workplaces, embedded in our tools, and shifting the way we work. But here’s the thing—AI is not a replacement for employee engagement or employee experience. In fact, as organizations start implementing AI, it’s more important than ever to keep those at the forefront. 

The Fear Factor: “Will AI Replace Me?” 

Let’s address the elephant in the room—yes, some employees are nervous. There’s a real fear that AI is coming for jobs, and for some, the idea of having to learn yet another new tool feels overwhelming. Older generations, in particular, might feel like they’re at risk of being left behind. This is not an AI problem—this is an employee experience and upskilling problem. The reality is, AI will take the place of employees in some areas. If we’re doing our jobs well, these displaced employees will be upskilled to do more impactful jobs in the workforce.  

If organizations roll out AI tools without clear communication, support, and training, they risk alienating their workforce. Employees need time to learn, adapt, and grow with these tools. 

AI Adoption Isn’t Just About the Technology 

AI isn’t just a plug-and-play solution—it comes with a learning curve, a trust curve, and a governance curve. Organizations should think beyond just implementing AI and consider the employee experience of AI adoption. 

For example, tools such as Copilot for M365, require proper governance—things like information architecture, security, and permissions—to prevent unintended consequences. Let’s say a finance employee asks an AI assistant a question, and the tool responds with sensitive financial data that shouldn’t be widely accessible. That employee might feel like they did something wrong, and there is a conversation to be had here, but the real issue was improper permissions. If governance isn’t handled up front, employees may lose confidence in the tool—or worse, fear using it altogether. 

Productivity vs. Expectations: The Morale Equation 

We know AI will boost productivity. That’s the promise, right? These tools will automate tasks, generate content, surface insights, and make work more efficient. But here’s a big question that organizations need to consider: 

If employees are more productive with AI, will they be expected to do more in the same amount of time? Follow up question: Is that always a reasonable expectation? 

If that expectation isn’t handled thoughtfully, it could impact morale, employee worth, and overall well-being. Employees might start feeling like they’re on a never-ending treadmill—always expected to do more, simply because AI exists. That’s a culture problem, not a technology problem.  

It is up to organizations to ensure employees understand the goals of AI. Are you trying to decrease workload so overworked employees can find their balance again? Are you trying to become more profitable, using AI to accomplish the more mundane so employees can accomplish new and exciting things? Be honest, it will help employees understand the potential consequences, both positive and negative, of this adoption. 

AI is Here to Assist, But Engagement is Key 

At the end of the day, AI is just another tool in the workplace. But how it’s introduced, how it’s governed, and how it’s woven into the employee experience will define whether it’s an asset or a source of stress. 

Organizations that invest in engagement, training, governance, and realistic expectations will see AI adoption thrive. Those that don’t? Well, they’ll have a disengaged workforce that sees AI as something being done to them, rather than something working for them. 

So, as we charge ahead into the AI-powered workplace, let’s not lose sight of what really matters—people. 

Building a Culture of Engagement with The Viva Underground 

Navigating AI adoption while keeping employee experience and engagement at the forefront isn’t something organizations have to figure out alone. This is where the Viva Underground comes in. 

The Viva Underground is a community-driven framework designed to help organizations harness the power the Employee Experience with tools such as Microsoft Viva, M365 Copilot, and modern collaboration tools (e.g., SharePoint and Teams). These tools are no longer about uploading and sending files but building to build a workplace culture that truly prioritizes employee engagement. From best practices to real-world insights, the Viva Underground is a map for those looking to strategically integrate AI and other technologies while keeping people at the center of the conversation. 

AI is a powerful tool, but real magic happens when technology and people work together. If you’re looking for ways to strengthen your organization’s employee experience strategy in the age of AI, check out the Viva Underground to join the conversation and gain valuable insights.