Task Automation and Augmentation
This exercise helps leaders identify repetitive tasks that can be automated with AI. Participants will explore GenAI tools to reduce workload and reimagine their roles.
Exercise Objectives
Identify Automation Opportunities
Discover tasks that can be automated or augmented with AI.
Practice Using GenAI
Learn to use AI tools to reduce repetitive workload.
Reimagine Your Role
Reflect on how priorities might shift with AI assistance.
Rethink Team Structure
Begin thinking about task redistribution across teams.
Required Tools
GenAI Tool
ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, or Notion AI with free or trial access.
Note-Taking
Pen & paper or digital notepad for recording tasks and insights.
Time
40 minutes total for the complete exercise and reflection.
Step 1: Task Audit
List Tasks
Write down 10 tasks you've performed in the past 5 working days.
Mark Repetitive Tasks
Label with 🟡 for tasks you do frequently.
Identify Low-Value Work
Mark with 🔴 tasks that don't maximize your skills.
Note Time-Consuming Activities
Use 🟢 for tasks that take significant time.
Step 2: Prompt AI for Augmentation
Prompt Text:
- "Act as a smart assistant that helps me reduce repetitive tasks. Here's what I typically do:
[Paste 3–5 tasks from my list]
Can you suggest how to automate or accelerate these with AI or digital tools?"
- Try follow-up prompts like:
"Can you write the email?"
"Can you create a spreadsheet template?"
"Can you summarize this process?"
Step 3: Reimagine Your Role
Time Saved
Calculate hours freed by automation
New Value
Identify higher-impact work you could do
Skills Focus
Consider which abilities deserve more attention
Innovation
Brainstorm new initiatives you could lead
Step 4: Peer Dialogue
Share Surprises
Discuss what unexpected tasks could be automated.
Near-Term Actions
Identify what could be automated this month.
Role Evolution
Consider implications for your role and team.
Reflection Questions
Automation Candidates
Which tasks felt the easiest to automate with AI?
Human-Led Activities
Which tasks should remain human-led? Why?
Leadership Impact
How might this affect how you lead or structure your team?
Next Steps
What would be your next step in applying what you learned today?
GenAI Clinic