AI, Automation & the Human Dilemma: What’s Still True in 2025?

AI, Automation & the Human Dilemma: What’s Still True in 2025?

In 2018, we explored the fear and promise of automation in “The Human Dilemma”.

Our argument then? That automation would augment humans - not replace them - if we had the vision and maturity to adapt.

Seven years later, has that played out?

Yes - and no.

What’s Changed

1. AI Has Surpassed Expectations

Generative AI and large language models (LLMs) weren’t even part of the conversation in 2018. Today, they’re everywhere - from drafting technical specs to summarising build reports. Tools like Authentise Threads now embed that intelligence into workflows, turning context into action.

2. Skilled Workers Are More Valuable Than Ever

Rather than erasing jobs entirely, automation has raised the bar. QA analysts, machine operators, and production managers now spend more time interpreting data and solving problems - and less time moving files or checking boxes.

3. Humans + Automation = More Output, Not Less Jobs

Companies using integrated tools like Flows AM report increased hiring to manage growth - especially for roles in data interpretation, systems thinking, and digital manufacturing planning.

What Hasn’t Changed

1. The Fear Is Still Real

Despite real productivity gains, the media narrative still leans toward “robots stealing jobs.” The difference in 2025? Now it includes white-collar roles too - engineers, writers, analysts.

2. We Still Lack a Societal Safety Net

Back in 2018, we asked if society was ready to rethink the 8-hour day and low-skill work models. It still isn’t. The tech moved faster than the policies.

3. Automation Still Lacks Context Without the Human

Data might be king - but without intent, it’s just noise. That’s why platforms like Threads are vital: they preserve engineering knowledge, operator observations, and real-time decisions across teams.

Where Do We Go From Here?

We’ve said it before: the problem isn’t automation - it’s how we implement it.

If your team is spending time on repetitive tasks that software can do, they’re not being replaced by robots. They’re being held back by a system that isn’t working for them.

So what does a better approach look like?

✅ Automate the admin, not the expertise

✅ Capture human insights, don’t discard them

✅ Create shared digital workspaces, not isolated dashboards

Related Read

👉 How Software is Streamlining the AM Workflow

Final Thoughts: AI Won’t Replace You - But Someone Using It Might

In 2025, the human dilemma isn’t if automation will impact your job - it’s whether your tools are helping you keep up.

At Authentise, we’re building systems that connect people, not cut them out. Automation should free humans to do what they do best: think, solve, and create.

👉 Explore Flows or Book a Demo to find out how we can help you keep up!