AI set to save professionals 12 hours per week by 2029

Core Insights - The Thomson Reuters Future of Professionals report indicates that knowledge workers are optimistic about AI's potential to enhance productivity and redefine workflows, with significant time savings anticipated [1][3][13] Productivity - Survey respondents predict AI could save them up to 12 hours per week within the next five years, translating to approximately 200 hours annually, equivalent to adding an extra colleague for every 10 team members [1][3][22] - For U.S. lawyers, this time savings could result in an estimated $100,000 in additional billable hours annually [1][3][22] - 77% of professionals believe AI will have a high or transformational impact on their work over the next five years, a 10 percentage point increase from the previous year [3][13] - 79% of professionals anticipate significant or moderate improvements in innovation within their companies over the next five years [1][6] Responsibility - A majority (95%) of professionals agree that AI should not represent clients in court or make final decisions on complex matters, emphasizing the need for human oversight [7][24] - 57% of professionals support the introduction of certification processes for AI systems, while 55% believe industry bodies should develop standards [7][24] Value - 78% of professionals view AI as a "force for good," recognizing its potential to enhance efficiency and create new value in their work [1][13] - The top areas where professionals expect improvements over the next five years include more innovation (79%), more time for engaging work (66%), greater opportunities for skill building (57%), and improved work-life balance (51%) [6][13]