The signal
Businesses are deploying AI agents to handle ongoing tasks in customer service, finance and IT. Some are beginning to formally define their roles and who is responsible for them.
Where it could lead
Treating AI as a coworker forces clear answers to questions like: who is accountable when it makes a mistake, how is it evaluated and how does it change human jobs?
Evidence that would strengthen the case
- HR and management systems add formal roles for AI agents
- Clear accountability rules for AI actions
- Companies report measurable results from AI “team members”
What could prevent it
- Agents prove too unreliable for ongoing responsibility
- Worker backlash or labour rules
- Legal liability concerns keep AI as a tool, not a role