Contrary to popular belief, automation and robotics may not spell the end for desk jobs. While technological advancements can replace certain tasks, most jobs require a blend of skills, and machines cannot replicate this mix. The human element in tasks such as management, applying expertise, and interfacing with stakeholders remains irreplaceable.
Fears of automation stem from a task-based perspective, focusing on the percentage of tasks that machines can perform. However, a holistic, job-based view reveals that less than 5% of occupations can be fully automated using current technology. Even within these jobs, only a third of their constituent tasks can be automated, indicating a need for human-machine collaboration rather than replacement.
Moreover, the cost of implementing automation is often prohibitive. Businesses must consider the expenses of hardware, software, and ongoing maintenance, as well as the potential disruption to operations. For many, the benefits of automation do not outweigh these costs.
In conclusion, while automation will undoubtedly alter the job landscape, it is unlikely to result in mass unemployment. Instead, the future of work may involve humans and machines working together, capitalising on each other’s strengths.
Go to source article: https://hbr.org/2016/11/robots-and-automation-may-not-take-your-desk-job-after-all