AI policy gaps in the workplace could undermine productivity, study finds

A lack of clear workplace policies on artificial intelligence (AI) is creating a growing “AI permission gap” that could undermine productivity and drive talent away from businesses, according to research from Red Eagle Tech.

The survey of 200 full-time office and administrative workers found that 54.5% do not have a clear or enabling policy on how to use AI tools at work.

Within this group, 41% operate in a complete policy vacuum where AI has either never been addressed or is governed only by informal conversations.

The findings suggested that uncertainty, rather than a lack of skills, is holding back adoption.

This ambiguity also impacted recruitment and retention. Two-thirds of workers said an employer’s approach to AI would influence their decision to accept a job offer, with more than a quarter describing it as a major factor.

At the same time, nearly a third of respondents admitted to using unapproved “shadow AI” tools for work tasks, regardless of whether formal restrictions are in place.

Kat Korson, director at Red Eagle Tech, said: “The great irony here is that doing nothing isn’t playing it safe. When you leave a policy vacuum, your risk-takers just use AI behind your back anyway, while your most careful, quality-conscious team members miss out on hours of productivity gains.

“On top of that, your best talent is actively looking for employers who have this sorted. It’s time to give them the right tools and clear permission.”