Effects of Artificial Intelligence and Robots on Job Satisfaction and Turnover Intention

Abstract

The competitive edge created by advanced technology in a company is indisputably evident. However, advanced technology may harm employee attitudes. The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and robots may replace workers. Hence, many workers are worried about employment security. Few studies quantitatively demonstrated these negative aspects of technology. Therefore, we clarified the influence of technology on job satisfaction and turnover intention of employees. Structural equation modeling was applied to an online survey of 571 full-time employees of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Japan. The results showed that the introduction of basic technology had a positive effect on job satisfaction and the introduction of advanced technology had a positive effect on turnover intention, while removal of old technology had no significant effect. Accordingly, managers must not underestimate the basic technical environment but implement it quickly. In addition, when introducing cutting-edge technology, managers must give due consideration to employee concerns about employment security. If the purpose and scope of impact are not carefully explained to employees before the technology is introduced, employee turnover increases. We clarified the effects of old, basic, and new technologies on employee attitudes for the first time.