Human-Centric AI for the Manufacturing Industry -Why do we need a holistic approach to ensure success?

Abstract

Technological advances continue to reshape the workplace, offering benefits such as automation, remote work, and enhanced access to information. However, they also pose challenges to employee well-being, including increased workloads, work-home interference, job insecurity, and increased surveillance. In this context, Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence (HCAI) presents a valuable opportunity to redesign work environments that prioritize human well-being alongside productivity. Human-Centred AI should not only prevent harm but also promote engagement, satisfaction, and a sense of purpose. By fostering a more humane and fulfilling work experience, this approach supports long-term organizational health and employee flourishing. This position paper proposes a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to investigate the effects of HCAI development in the manufacturing industry. We argue that to truly support worker well-being, AI technologies must be designed and implemented drawing on multidisciplinary insights and in co-creation with users. This ensures that technological change is aligned with the physical, mental, and social dimensions of human experience. Developing HCAI requires a system perspective that integrates technological innovation with human values and workplace dynamics. Only through such a holistic and interdisciplinary lens can we ensure that AI technologies serve the people who use them.