Is IKEA Setting the Standard for Employee AI Training?

IKEA is launching an initiative to promote artificial intelligence (AI) literacy throughout its organization. The retailer’s training programs aim to equip employees with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the evolving landscape of AI effectively.

Parag Parekh, chief digital officer at IKEA Retail (Ingka Group), stated, “Our vision is clear. It’s about enhancing the capabilities of co-workers through technology, ensuring that IKEA continues to be the place where innovation and compassion go hand in hand.”

Starting from FY 2024, IKEA has set ambitious targets to offer AI literacy training to approximately 3,000 co-workers and 500 leaders. Parekh views this initiative as a testament to IKEA’s belief in harnessing the power of its people to drive creativity, efficiency, and results through technology.

The training programs encompass a range of courses tailored to meet the diverse needs of employees at different levels within the organization. These courses include AI Fundamentals, available to all individuals, as well as specialized training in Responsible AI, Mastering Gen AI, and Algorithmic Training for Ethics.

The primary objective is to cultivate a deep understanding of AI across the organization while ensuring that IKEA’s values guide the responsible use of technology. For leaders, specific programs like AI Exploration Days are designed to align AI capabilities with IKEA’s business priorities.

Additionally, IKEA has invested in programs like the Accelerator Programme, targeting tech enthusiasts with advanced degrees in Data Science, Machine Learning, or Large Language Models. This initiative aims to attract and nurture the right talent to fill critical roles within the organization.

Francesco Marzoni, global data and analytics officer for IKEA Retail (Ingka Group), highlighted the company’s commitment to preparing its employees for future challenges. He said, “We are providing a blended experience for learning, and doing in a way that future-proofs our workforce to ensure we remain at the forefront of innovation.”

IKEA is collaborating with various AI tools developed in-house or in partnership with suppliers. One such tool, Hej Copilot, launched in collaboration with Microsoft, exemplifies the potential of GenAI. Designed to assist employees with a variety of tasks, Hej Copilot enhances human capabilities, allowing workers to focus on higher-value activities.

From entry-level staff to top executives, there’s a growing enthusiasm for integrating AI into the workplace. According to LinkedIn’s recent workplace learning report, 4 in 5 workers express a desire to learn about AI and its applications in their roles. Moreover, 84% of global employees see AI as a career booster, with 58% expecting significant changes in their work within a year due to AI.

Despite this keen interest among workers, there’s a notable gap in leadership investment in AI education. Only 38% of U.S. executives report actively supporting their employees in becoming AI-literate. Interestingly, a survey by KPMG revealed that nearly three-quarters of CEOs prioritize investing in generative AI for profitability, innovation, and security. However, over half the respondents admitted to allocating more funds to new technology acquisition than employee training.

According to the Society for Human Resources Management, a 2023 Boston Consulting Group survey found that while 86% of workers believed they needed AI training, only 14% had received it. Similarly, Randstad’s Workmonitor Pulse revealed that only 1 in 10 workers had been offered AI-specific training, despite a surge in AI-related job postings.

Consequently, many employees are taking the initiative to upskill independently. About half of global professionals are already incorporating AI in their roles, with one-third experimenting with tools like ChatGPT, according to LinkedIn. Motivated by the potential of AI to streamline tasks and enhance work-life balance, employees are eager to acquire new skills and focus on tasks they find most rewarding.

The rapid adoption of GenAI technologies has created a pressing need for reskilling across industries. Organizations are increasingly using tools like ChatGPT, Bard, and Bing Chat in various roles, requiring training in both technical proficiency and ethical use.

The skills gap is causing concern among CEOs and HR leaders. A 2023 TalentLMS survey showed that 64% of HR leaders believe GenAI has changed the key skills needed in their organizations, with over half identifying AI literacy as essential across all roles.

Offering GenAI training has also become a critical factor in attracting and retaining talent, highlighting its importance in today’s competitive job market.