Survey: Execs say AI won't reduce headcount.

Artificial intelligence spent decades being touted as the next big thing. That prediction came true in November 2022, with the release of ChatGPT, the natural language chatbot that suddenly delivered AI to ordinary people.

Since then, the business press has breathlessly covered AI and its possible downsides, including that it will cause widespread job losses. If a recent Microsoft survey of business executives is to be believed, the great AI replacement theory may be overhyped.

By almost two to one, executives said AI was more likely to be used to boost employee productivity than to reduce headcount. Asked what...