Periodical

The Best Manufacturers Build AI with Workers, Not for Them.

Bibliographic Details
Title: The Best Manufacturers Build AI with Workers, Not for Them.
Authors: Countryman, Tracey1, Oosterhuis, Inge2, Wheless, Jeff3, Afzal, Rushda4
Source: Harvard Business Review Digital Articles. 5/22/2026, p1-9. 9p.
Subject Terms: *Human-computer interaction, *Performance management, *Technological innovations
Abstract: The article focuses on how manufacturers successfully integrate artificial intelligence (AI) by involving frontline workers in shaping, learning, and measuring AI tools within their work environments. It highlights three key principles: reducing workers’ uncertainty about changing roles through collaborative task mapping, training employees in the flow of real work rather than abstract settings, and measuring performance based on actual human-AI collaboration outcomes rather than training hours. Examples from companies like Ford and a global consumer goods firm illustrate how embedding worker expertise and real-time feedback improves trust, adoption, and operational results. The article emphasizes that the future factory will be AI-enabled but human-led, requiring ongoing co-learning and role redesign to ensure workforce engagement and effective AI integration. [Extracted from the article]
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Database: Business Source Index
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