New work directing AI agents
Rudrajit Choudhuri, Jenna L. Butler, Christian Bird, Carmen Badea et al. · arXiv · 16 Oct 2026 · not peer-reviewed
Source finding
12.4% of 331 analysed responses describe new AI-centred work: directing agents, setting standards and building systems for them.
Our interpretation
New oversight tasks need time, ownership and professional judgment.
Method and evidence
Open-ended Microsoft survey in August 2026; AI-assisted thematic analysis with human review.
Limitations and interests
Self-report at one employer; 8.9% response rate. Unreviewed preprint. Several authors work at Microsoft; no productivity measurement.
What businesses can do
Identify new tasks for directing agents and setting standards. Assign responsibility and establish how much time they require.
Where to start
Sections III and IV: response selection, classification and limitations.