Augmentation vs. Automation: How Tactical and Strategic AI Shape the Future of Work

This panel explores the evolving dichotomy between augmentation and automation in the age of artificial intelligence, with a critical lens on tactical AI at the individual level and strategical AI across organizations. Panelists will debate whether the future of work should prioritize augmenting human capabilities or automating entire workflows, and how this decision impacts performance, innovation, and ethics. Emerging technologies such as agentic AI and the Model Context Protocol (MCP) will be introduced to illustrate new frontiers in AI integration, autonomy, and contextual awareness. Discussions will examine how tactical AI empowers employees with decision support and productivity tools, while strategic AI drives organization-wide transformation and competitive advantage. The panel will also address the ethical considerations of AI adoption, including transparency, accountability, fairness, and societal implications. The panel will conclude with research recommendations to guide future inquiry into the design, deployment, and governance of AI across tactical and strategic contexts.