ActivTrak

ActivTrak's Productivity Lab tracked 120,620 employees and determined that the optimal AI adoption level is moderate, rather than full automation or super user status. The data shows that productivity peaks at 75% during Stage 2 (Task Execution), where healthy utilization occurs when employees use AI for routine tasks. This type of moderate usage is recommended over aiming for high consumption, which can lead to runaway costs and operational disconnect.

AI adoption is accelerating work timelines but shifting pressure to employees by raising output expectations without sustainable adjustments. Studies show AI saves time but intensifies workloads, reduces deep thinking, and creates gaps in guidance for effective AI use, with speed becoming a primary performance metric.

Research indicates AI adoption increases work intensity rather than reducing it, with workers taking on more tasks and experiencing 'AI brain fry.' Studies from ActivTrak and UC Berkeley Haas School of Business show AI use leads to higher multitasking, longer work hours, and shifting expectations about productivity.