A more human work environment
In 2021 and beyond, the changes discussed above will cause and contribute to three factors that facilitate an individual’s ability to work and to learn.
Empowerment is the first factor. Workers who are given the tools and skills to be productive demonstrate greater self-confidence and motivation. Technologies available today and in the future empower employees to show increasing productivity through 2030. A 2018 survey showed that 86% of global business leaders planned to use emerging technologies to improve their workforce productivity. In light of the likelihood that 2020’s increase in virtual work from anywhere will continue, dozens of technology applications will allow individuals to work smarter, faster, and virtually from anywhere.
Inclusiveness and diversity are the second factor, good for the business and for the workforce. AI can contribute directly to a workforce being more diverse and inclusive. Talent recruitment can suffer the unconscious bias of choosing the applicant who most resembles oneself. AI applications already at work apply “technology filters” that eliminate demographic clues from candidates’ resumes and open the way for a more non-biased hiring decision. Eliminating systemic bias such as age, race, gender allows organizations to make talent selections based on capabilities individuals can bring to the job.
Learning critical knowledge and skills is the third factor. As 2021 merges powerful technologies with human capabilities, learning opportunities seen now as valuable will be critical for the next 10-15 years. Such learning will integrate professional skills and digital knowledge, enabling individuals to maximize success from the human-machine partnership.