Lifelong learning for a digital future: AI insights from Accenture

Explore how AI is transforming the way we work and how you can improve your AI literacy with AI experts at Accenture.

From ‘AI-generated’ becoming part of our modern lexicon to ChatGPT, Face ID and Turnitin being just some examples of AI-powered technologies used practically everyday, AI is well and truly here – but what exactly is AI and how can you use it to work smarter? Keep reading to hear from the AI experts at Accenture, a multinational technology consultancy firm, for their valuable insights and tips. 

So, what exactly is AI?

Good question. Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to machines simulating human intelligence—learning, reasoning, and making decisions. In 2025, AI is no longer a futuristic concept but a core driver of how we work, live, and innovate. From diagnosing illnesses and generating content to transforming customer service and data analysis, AI is becoming deeply embedded in everyday business operations and our everyday lives.

How AI is transforming work and industry

The growth of AI is accelerating rapidly. According to McKinsey, generative AI could contribute between $2.6 trillion and $4.4 trillion annually to the global economy. Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs estimates that up to 300 million jobs worldwide could be affected by AI, with tasks in areas like writing, legal analysis, and design increasingly being automated.

Humans + machines = A new way of working

While there are growing fears that AI could potentially replace a number of roles, it’s important to note that this technological shift is more about augmentation than replacement—creating space for new roles that complement human skills with AI capabilities. The World Economic Forum reports that 44% of workers’ core skills will change by 2030, while 69 million new jobs are expected to emerge—many in fields that didn’t exist a decade ago. Roles such as AI developers, prompt engineers, and AI ethics specialists are becoming critical in this evolving landscape.

How you can use AI to work smarter

From automating repetitive tasks to generating insights from large datasets, AI can save time and boost productivity. Here are just a few examples of how AI is currently being used in the workplace. 

• Content creation: Marketing teams are using AI tools like ChatGPT to draft emails or social media content. 

• Data and trends: Finance teams apply machine learning models to detect anomalies in transactions and improve forecasting accuracy. 

• Internal comms: Accenture’s internal teams are using Writer, a tool to create AI agents to draft marketing material and internal email updates using the corporate tone of voice —freeing up more time for strategic thinking.

Rather than seeing it as another tool to add to the growing list of project management systems, messaging platforms and productivity apps, using AI can help you work smarter and improve your work outcomes. Instead of learning more and working harder, you can upskill and learn how you can streamline your current work processes while remaining relevant in your field and the job market. 

If you want to start using AI to help you work smarter, try experimenting with AI tools that fit your role. For instance, use transcription and summarisation tools in meetings, AI-powered analytics platforms for smarter decision-making, or virtual agents to automate customer service. These small changes can add up to major gains. Of course, if you’re using these in a work setting, don’t forget to seek approval from relevant people to avoid risks of data theft or unauthorised data transfers.

Why upskilling matters

As Camilla Drejer, Managing Director within the UKI Citizenship, Sustainability and Responsible Business at Accenture comments: “It is vital that we support our communities to understand the impact of AI in both the workplace and daily life. Rapid advancements in AI technology are impacting all industries and transforming the way we work. To successfully navigate these changes, we can all take steps to continuously develop the skills required to work with AI and embrace the new career opportunities it will inevitably open up.”

Ethical AI for everyone

To fully realise the potential of AI, we must use the technology in a way that is transparent, ethical, and benefits everyone. The domain of Responsible AI (RAI) ensures that AI systems are developed and deployed ethically, transparently, and inclusively. As AI becomes more integral to decision-making, it’s crucial to guard against unintended biases, privacy breaches, and lack of accountability. Familiarising yourself with RAI concepts empowers you to use your skills to not only deliver value with AI but also uphold best practice values and build trust with stakeholders.

Lifelong learning for a digital future

To stay ahead, lifelong learning is essential. Initiatives like Accenture’s Skills to Succeed and its Regenerative AI Programme (aimed at reducing barriers to digital inclusion for over 1 million people in the UK) are helping people across the UK gain the knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. 

As part of the Skills to Succeed Strategy, Accenture partnered with FutureLearn to develop an AI course, which is one of eight, free CPD-accredited courses in the Digital Skills Programme. With animations, videos, infographics, articles and quizzes, and the added support of mentors, learners can gain some of the most in-demand skills in the current digital climate.

In the course, you will:

• Discover AI’s potential to transform everyday life and reshape the way we work.
• Understand the growing relationship between humans and AI.
• Develop the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the future workplace.
• Explore the applications of AI in industry.
•  Investigate the ethics of responsible AI.
• Gain the skills to analyse how your  present or prospective career may advance using AI, identifying gaps in your current skill set and learning how these can be adapted for evolving roles.

Final thoughts

AI isn’t just reshaping industries—it’s redefining the skills we need to succeed. By embracing lifelong learning and human-AI collaboration, individuals and organisations alike can future-proof themselves in an increasingly digital world.