Generative AI has emerged as a game-changer in workplaces, with surprising levels of adoption and varied usage. According to a survey conducted by GDC (Game Developers Conference), nearly half of the developers (49 percent) reported that generative AI tools are already being utilized in their workplaces, while 31 percent revealed personal usage of this technology.
Interestingly, even among developers who are not currently using generative AI, there is a significant level of interest, with 15 percent expressing curiosity about its potential. On the other hand, 23 percent of non-users have no desire to incorporate it into their work processes.
Among the departments where generative AI is being employed the most, finance takes the lead with 44 percent, followed closely by community and production management at 41 percent and 33 percent, respectively. Conversely, departments such as QA, writing, and audio ranked lower in terms of generative AI usage, accounting for only 6 percent, 13 percent, and 14 percent, respectively.
Surprisingly, it was found that indie developers are the primary users of generative AI, with 37 percent of their staff utilizing the technology. In comparison, 21 percent of workers in triple-A and double-A companies reported using generative AI.
When it comes to companies’ policies on generative AI, the survey revealed that 51 percent of developers stated their companies have implemented AI policies, making usage optional. However, a small percentage (2 percent) mentioned being required to use generative AI at work, while 12 percent are prohibited from using it altogether.
Developers have expressed a range of opinions regarding the role of generative AI in their workplace. Some have highlighted its potential for enhancing code development and engineering processes, stating that it should be used to augment existing workflows rather than fully replacing human input. Others have expressed hope that generative AI will assist individual artists in their creative endeavors. Meanwhile, there are those who believe that generative AI has no place at work, and even a few who jokingly mentioned their desire for it to handle tedious tasks like rigging.
There are concerns surrounding the adoption of generative AI as well. Some fear that the industry may overlook potential red flags or that management could employ the technology for questionable purposes. While some view the use of generative AI as a form of theft, others believe it is an inevitable development.
One developer did acknowledge that generative AI might be used to cut corners, but expressed hope that triple-A studios would recognize the importance of maintaining a human touch and utilizing tools that facilitate work rather than replacing it entirely.
In conclusion, generative AI is gaining significant traction in workplaces, with almost half of the developers surveyed already using this technology. While it finds its most extensive application in finance, there is potential for generative AI to revolutionize various other departments in the future. As the industry continues to navigate the pros and cons of generative AI, striking a balance between human input and technological assistance will likely shape the future of work in the gaming industry and beyond.
