In recent IELTS examinations, questions about artificial intelligence and its role in business have become increasingly prevalent. Similar to how automation is transforming the retail sector, this topic reflects the growing influence of AI in modern business operations. Based on analysis of past papers, here’s a commonly appearing question type:
Some people believe that artificial intelligence (AI) will significantly improve business efficiency and productivity. Others argue that AI poses risks to employment and human decision-making in business. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of Question
- Topic: AI’s impact on business
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key areas to cover: Benefits and drawbacks of AI in business context
- Word count requirement: 250-300 words
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The integration of artificial intelligence in business operations has sparked considerable debate regarding its implications. While some view AI as a revolutionary tool for enhancing business efficiency, others express concerns about its potential negative impact on employment and human involvement in decision-making processes. In my opinion, while AI presents certain challenges, its benefits for business efficiency significantly outweigh the drawbacks.
Proponents of AI implementation in business operations highlight several compelling advantages. Firstly, AI systems can process vast amounts of data and perform complex analyses at speeds far beyond human capability, leading to more informed and timely business decisions. For example, AI-powered analytics can predict market trends and customer behavior patterns with remarkable accuracy, similar to how importance of digital banking for businesses has revolutionized financial operations. Additionally, AI automation can streamline routine tasks, reducing operational costs and minimizing human error.
However, critics raise valid concerns about AI’s impact on employment and decision-making autonomy. The primary argument is that AI automation could lead to significant job displacement, particularly in sectors heavily reliant on routine tasks. Furthermore, there are concerns about over-dependence on AI systems, potentially undermining human judgment and creativity in business decision-making processes.
Despite these concerns, I believe that AI’s role in business will ultimately prove beneficial. The technology’s capacity to enhance productivity and create new opportunities, much like importance of entrepreneurship in economic growth, outweighs its potential drawbacks. While job displacement is a legitimate concern, history shows that technological advancement typically creates new types of employment opportunities rather than causing permanent job losses.
In conclusion, while the integration of AI in business operations presents certain challenges, its potential to revolutionize business efficiency and create new opportunities makes it a valuable tool for modern businesses. The key lies in implementing AI thoughtfully while ensuring adequate support for workforce adaptation to these technological changes.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, AI is becoming more important in business. Some people think it helps businesses work better, but others worry about jobs and human control. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On the positive side, AI makes businesses more efficient. It can work faster than humans and doesn’t make mistakes like people do. For example, AI can check many customer orders quickly and help companies save money. Also, it can help managers make better decisions by looking at lots of information quickly.
However, there are some problems with AI in business. Many people are worried about losing their jobs to machines. When companies use AI, they might need fewer workers. Also, some people think it’s not good to let computers make important business decisions instead of humans.
I think AI is good for business even though it has some problems. It helps companies work better and can create new kinds of jobs. People need to learn new skills to work with AI, just like Technology’s role in modern travel has changed how we plan trips.
In conclusion, I believe the benefits of AI in business are bigger than the problems it might cause. Companies should use AI but also help workers learn new skills.
Key Vocabulary
- Integration (n) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃn/ – the process of combining things effectively
- Revolutionary (adj) /ˌrevəˈluːʃəneri/ – completely new and different
- Implications (n) /ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃnz/ – possible effects or results
- Streamline (v) /ˈstriːmlaɪn/ – make more efficient and effective
- Autonomous (adj) /ɔːˈtɒnəməs/ – independent and self-governing
- Displacement (n) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – the act of moving something from its usual position
- Implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – the process of putting a plan into action
Practice Suggestion
Try writing your own essay on this related topic:
“How will artificial intelligence change the way companies hire and manage employees in the future?”
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.