Robert J. Youmans, PhD
Robert J. Youmans, PhD
UX Director, Google Workplace
Rob Youmans is the Director of UX Research for Google Workspace, where he oversees GenAI integration into productivity tools like Gmail, Slides, Meet, and other emerging products. Previously, Rob directed design and research teams for YouTube Shopping and the YouTube Creator teams. Rob is a former academic, and has taught human-centered product development courses at UC Berkeley, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), George Mason University, and California State University, Northridge.
Reshaping the Workplace: Generative AI and the Future of Productivity
IMAX, Thursday 3:00 pm - 3:45 pm
For over a century, psychologists have been fascinated by the pursuit of productivity. From Lilian Gilbreth's groundbreaking time and motion studies, which optimized everything from soap production to bricklaying, to the rise of the assembly line, which revolutionized manufacturing, the drive to enhance efficiency has been relentless. Today, we stand on the cusp of another transformative era—the age of Generative AI. This powerful technology is reshaping our workplace, and redefining concepts of knowledge-worker productivity.
