The profound impact of technology on today’s workplace
We’ve been living in the digital age for quite some time now so we cannot deny that the workplace has dramatically evolved. The presence of technology has made racial changes in workplace dynamics – from the way we communicate to the automation of certain processes. Robert Half Technology suggests that CIOs believe that factors such as the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing and automation are having a profound impact on staffing, as well as on the scope of the roles and skills required for workplace efficiency. Additionally, technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) are automating manual tasks in operations which require learning and help to eliminate human error. While many may see the role of AI as a threat to human talent, it is not. In fact, AI can automate time-consuming, repetitive tasks like mass data input and retrieval, and minimize errors. This allows employees to utilize their skills in other tasks. Technology not only changed the day-to-day operations in the workplace, but has reshaped the skills required for the workforce to succeed in certain areas of business. Notably, understanding of the use of such technologies is the most important skillset. But this doesn’t mean that “soft skills” are irrelevant. Consequently, soft skills are more important than ever. According to research done by Matt Weston, MD and Robert Half UK, a significant proportion of CIOs cited strategic planning (50%), problem-solving (40%) and interpersonal and communication skills (35%) as crucial for success. Technology will keep influencing businesses and continue to shape the workplace, But human intelligence will remain a very desirable skill for successful organizational management.
