69% of Workers in Singapore Believe That AI-powered Automation Improves Job Fulfillment

A study conducted by UiPath has revealed that the new generation of workers known as the Automation Generation, believes AI-powered automation solutions empower them to do their jobs better

UiPath, a leading enterprise automation software company, conducted a survey and discovered that 69% of workers in Singapore believe that automation can address burnout issues and enhance job fulfillment. This figure is higher than the global average of 58% and ranks as the third highest among all the countries surveyed worldwide. The survey also revealed that 73% of workers in Singapore hold a more positive view of employers who utilize business automation compared to those who do not.

“Disruption in the workplace and macroeconomic factors often mean employees are asked to bear that burden by doing more with less—but it doesn’t need to be that way,” said Brigette McInnis-Day, Chief People Officer at UiPath. “The employees of Automation Generation are embracing AI-powered automation so they can better manage their workloads, excel in their careers, and improve their work-life balance. Businesses that deploy AI in an open, flexible, and enterprise ready way are best positioned to attract and retain the types of employees that will help them thrive in an automation-first world. Automation is a key differentiator for companies to attract and retain by empowering employees and driving engagement.”

In the past six months, 47% of Singaporean respondents reported being tasked with additional responsibilities at work due to layoffs or hiring freezes, resulting in less support. Consequently, work has accumulated, putting a strain on employees. Approximately 26% of workers in Singapore have reported experiencing burnout, prompting many to turn to AI tools for relief.

The term “Automation Generation” does not pertain to a specific age group or demographic. Instead, it refers to professionals who embrace AI and automation to foster collaboration, creativity, and productivity. This generation of workers seeks these technologies to enrich both their professional and personal lives, aiming to avoid feeling like robots themselves.

Among the countries surveyed globally, Singapore has the second highest percentage of workers, with 49%, who are currently utilizing business automation solutions in their workplace. A significant 87% feel adequately equipped with the necessary resources and support to perform their jobs effectively. Additionally, 81% of these workers believe that implementing business automation solutions can effectively tackle burnout issues and contribute to an enhanced sense of job satisfaction.

“As the Singapore economy continues to remain volatile due to the global outlook, automation can play an important role in helping organizations navigate challenges, as it has the potential to transform industries and improve the lives of workers,” said Jess O’Reilly, Area Vice President, Asia at UiPath. “The insights from our survey has shown that the majority of Singaporean workers are ready to embrace AI-powered automation to support them at work. To enhance job satisfaction and increase productivity of workers, organizations in Singapore must augment capabilities of the human workforce with automation to ensure sustainable business growth.”

The Survey of 581 Singaporean workers also discovered:

Automation Generation workers desire flexibility in their working environment (47%), more time in learning new skills (43%), and lesser time on manual tasks (42%)

A majority of Singaporean workers, specifically 69%, hold the belief that automation can effectively address burnout and enhance job fulfillment. Among the tasks that workers express the most interest in automating are data analysis, with 58% showing interest, followed by data input/creation of datasets at 54%, and resolving IT/technical issues at 50%.

Those who are currently utilizing business automation solutions report several benefits. They highlight greater productivity as the primary advantage at 55%, followed by more accurate work at 46%, and improved internal workflows at 45%.

Interestingly, regardless of their job roles, 55% of workers express an interest in becoming citizen developers. This desire stems from their aspiration to create new automation that could enhance their work-life balance.

A significant proportion of Singaporean workers, encompassing various generations, show openness to the potential of AI-powered automation in assisting them at work. Among Generation Z respondents, an overwhelming 85% believe that automation would improve their job performance. Similarly, 72% of Millennials, 65% of Generation X, and 57% of Baby Boomers share this sentiment, considering automation as a valuable tool for enhancing their work.

When it comes to the primary contributors to burnout among Singaporean workers, several factors emerge. According to the survey, the leading causes include pressure from managers or leadership, which accounts for 40% of respondents’ experiences. Additionally, spending excessive time on tactical tasks and working beyond scheduled hours contribute to burnout, with 38% of participants indicating these factors. Uncertainty regarding career opportunities within their companies is also a significant factor, with 33% of respondents expressing concerns in this area. Overall, this survey conducted by UiPath highlights the potential benefits of automation in addressing burnout, improving job satisfaction, and enhancing productivity for workers in Singapore. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating automation solutions in organizations to attract and retain talent, enhance the human workforce, and drive sustainable business growth.