Is AI Actually Making Us LESS Productive?

Artificial intelligence is supposed to save us time at work—but what if it’s actually making us busier?

In this Fox 5 New York segment, tech expert and Syracuse University professor Shelly Palmer breaks down a surprising new workplace study suggesting that AI tools may be increasing time spent on emails, communication, and administrative tasks.

But is that really the full story?

Shelly explains why the headlines are misleading—and why AI isn’t slowing us down, but accelerating how much we can do. As workers gain access to powerful tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Google Gemini, productivity isn’t decreasing—it’s expanding. The result? More output, more communication, and a feeling of being busier than ever.

Drawing on historical parallels like the adoption of electricity, Shelly introduces the idea that new technologies don’t reduce work—they unlock more possibilities, which can temporarily increase workload.

He also shares practical advice for professionals:
* Why you should start using AI tools now
* How AI skills can make you more valuable at work
* The importance of discipline when using AI for tasks like email

If you’ve ever wondered whether AI is helping or hurting your productivity, this segment separates fact from fiction—and shows how to actually get your time back.

Author’s note: This is not a sponsored post. I am the author of this article and it expresses my own opinions. I am not, nor is my company, receiving compensation for it. This work was created with the assistance of various generative AI models.

About Shelly Palmer

Shelly Palmer is the Professor of Advanced Media in Residence at Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and CEO of The Palmer Group, a consulting practice that helps Fortune 500 companies with technology, media and marketing. Named LinkedIn’s “Top Voice in Technology,” he covers tech and business for Good Day New York, is a regular commentator on CNN and writes a popular daily business blog. He's a bestselling author, and the creator of the popular, free online course, Generative AI for Execs. Follow @shellypalmer or visit shellypalmer.com.

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