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AI doesn’t reduce work, it intensifies it

simonwillison.net

February 10, 2026

2 min read

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60/100

Summary

AI implementation in workplaces increases the intensity of work rather than reducing it, as employees manage multiple tasks simultaneously, such as writing code and other responsibilities. A study conducted by researchers from Berkeley Haas School of Business observed these effects among 200 employees at a U.S.-based technology company.

Key Takeaways

AI increases cognitive load and creates a sense of juggling multiple tasks, leading to mental exhaustion among workers.
Employees experience a feeling of productivity while managing several active threads, but this often results in burnout and decreased mental energy.
Organizations are encouraged to establish an "AI practice" to structure AI usage and mitigate the unsustainable intensity of work.
The integration of AI has disrupted traditional notions of sustainable working practices, necessitating a new balance in work habits.

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Community Sentiment

Negative

Positives

AI provides a unique toolset that can enhance creativity, but its addictive nature may lead to diminishing returns in motivation and engagement.

Concerns

AI intensifies work demands rather than reducing them, as management often raises output expectations with each efficiency gain.
Agentic development can lead to wasted time chasing ideas without proper evaluation, resulting in a trade-off between execution and critical thinking.
The constant influx of AI-generated insights can feel overwhelming and trivial, making it difficult to focus on what truly matters.