Multiverse warns overreliance on AI is killing essential human skills.
The issue started as businesses rushed to invest millions in AI tools, chasing big growth numbers like Accenture’s £736 billion UK forecast. But new research from Multiverse says that heavy AI dependence is actually dulling skills needed to use these tools well.
The launch follows reports, including from MIT, showing AI might make users less sharp, not smarter. 
Multiverse spotted a critical flaw: companies focus on tech but ignore crucial human capabilities like analytical reasoning, creativity, and resilience. These are the skills that separate casual AI users from true power users.
Gary Eimerman, Multiverse’s Chief Learning Officer, put it bluntly:
“Leaders are spending millions on AI tools, but their investment focus isn’t going to succeed. They think it’s a technology problem when it’s really a human and technology problem.
“Without a deliberate focus on capabilities like analytical reasoning and creativity, as well as culture and behaviours, AI projects will never deliver up to their potential.”
The researchers identified thirteen key human skills AI can’t replace. These include breaking down complex problems for AI, spotting when AI shouldn’t be trusted, ethical oversight, and sticking with it when AI outputs fail. Creativity matters too — it drives fresh ways to use AI, not just slight improvements on old ideas.
Imogen Stanley, Senior Learning Scientist at Multiverse, added:
“We need to start looking beyond technical skills and think about the human skills that the workforce must hone to get the best out of AI.
“What we found during our first principles research phase was that skills like ethical oversight, output verification, and creative experimentation are the real differentiators of power AI users.”
The takeaway: AI isn’t just about better tech. Success hinges on boosting human skills alongside it. Without that, all the AI investment risks underdelivering or failing entirely.
The future belongs to those who can pilot AI, not just passively follow it — mastering the art of asking the right questions, analyzing results, and pushing creative boundaries.
Read more from Multiverse’s research here.
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