# Understanding Collaboration between Professional Designers and Decision-making AI: A Case Study in the Workplace

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2509.24718 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2509.24718/

## Key facts

- Cited by 1 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 29 Sep 2025.

## Built on by (most cited first, 1 of 1)

- [No Pixel Left Behind: Filling Gaps in Anime Colorization](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2609.00800/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has fundamentally transformed creative work practices in the design industry. Existing studies have identified both opportunities and challenges for creative practitioners in their collaboration with generative AI and explored ways to facilitate effective human-AI co-creation. However, there is still a limited understanding of designers' collaboration with AI that supports creative processes distinct from generative AI. To address these gaps, this study focuses on understanding designers' collaboration with decision-making AI, which supports the convergence process in the creative workflow, as opposed to the divergent process supported by generative AI. Specifically, we conducted a case study at an online advertising design company to explore how professional graphic designers at the company perceive the impact of decision-making AI on their creative work practices. The case company incorporated an AI system that predicts the effectiveness of advertising design into the design workflow as a decision-making support tool. Findings from interviews with 12 designers identified how designers trust and rely on AI, its perceived benefits and challenges, and their strategies for navigating the challenges. Based on the findings, we discuss design recommendations for integrating decision-making AI into the creative design workflow.