AI doesn’t reduce work, it intensifies it
simonwillison.net
February 10, 2026
2 min read
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.
2 reports covering the same development. Grouped automatically.
Coverage & discussions
Hacker News · hbr.org
Hacker News · simonwillison.net
Community discussions
Community Sentiment
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.
Related Articles
Why developers using AI are working longer hours
Mar 7, 2026
I Think You Might Be Fooling Yourself with AI
Jul 23, 2026
The solution might be cancelling my AI subscription
May 31, 2026
Eight Myths on Software Engineering and GenAI
Aug 4, 2026
Tech leaders say AI means less work – staff say they work up to 90 hours a week
Aug 10, 2026