Beware Coworkers Who Produce AI-Generated 'Workslop'
A new term 'workslop' describes low-quality, AI-generated content that appears polished but offers little real value. According to research by BetterUp Labs and Stanford Social Media Lab, workslop plagues workplaces and undermines productivity. This post explores what workslop is, why it's a problem, and how leaders can set better AI standards. Source: TechCrunch, September 27, 2025
There's a new warning making waves in the modern workplace: beware the rise of AI-generated 'workslop.' Coined by researchers at BetterUp Labs and Stanford Social Media Lab, workslop refers to low-quality, AI-produced material that looks competent but fails to genuinely advance a task.
What is 'Workslop'?
An emerging problem
- Workslop is "AI generated work content that masquerades as good work, but lacks the substance to meaningfully advance a given task."
- After surveying 1,150 full-time employees, 40% said they'd received workslop in the past month.
- It often creates more work downstream—forcing others to correct or redo tasks that AI didn't really finish well.
Impact on Organizations
Hidden costs of bad AI
- 95% of organizations who've tried AI report seeing zero ROI—workslop is one likely culprit.
- Poorly conceived AI output is often "unhelpful, incomplete, or missing crucial context."
- This shoddy work adds hidden burdens across teams and projects.
How to Fight Workslop
Better leadership, better results
- Leaders should model thoughtful, purposeful use of AI—not just automation for its own sake.
- Set clear guardrails—define what is and isn't acceptable AI use for tasks and communication.
- Insist on review, context, and a human touch to catch weak AI output before it spreads.
Source: TechCrunch, September 27, 2025
As AI tools get more powerful, understanding and avoiding 'workslop' is crucial for every organization. Teams that set standards and use AI wisely will outperform those who settle for quantity over quality.
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