A projection of how work, workers and the workplace will evolve in the times ahead is what the future of work is all about. And It’s a subject that keeps many company executives thinking as they make decisions that enable their organizations to succeed today while they prepare for the future. But then, the future has already come.
No doubt, discussions around future-of-work places much focus on technology. Yet, other issues such as remote employment and the gig economy, play a huge part in not only how work will be done, but who will be doing what and from where.
Models explaining the future of work offers many different opinions. Yet many agree on three basic futures to consider: how the work is done, who does the work, and where and when work is done.
How the work is done
Today’s employees are collaborating with artificial intelligence and automation to get work done innovatively and efficiently. Collaboration tools range from analytic software and chatbots to robotics. All these have the power to learn and adapt using AI, natural language processing, and machine learning. It is imperative for employers to leverage the power of this man and machine relationship to improve processes, productivity, engagement, and creativity among their employees.
Who does the work
The future of work includes the need for traditional full- and part-time workers. and this also includes out-sourced employees and freelancers also known as gig workers. Employees must prepare for new jobs and career paths through advanced training, reskilling, and upskilling. Employers too must anticipate the movement of workers into, within, and out of the organization due to changing skills requirements caused by advances in technology.
Where and when work is done
No doubt, the global coronavirus pandemic brought forward the need for employees to function successfully outside of a collocated workspace. The move toward increased workplace flexibility has been an ongoing process for years. The workforce will likely grow more distributed as geographic and technological boundaries lessen. Now, work is done anywhere in the world, and at any time. It is transforming the remote-enabled workforce from the standard 9 to 5 workday to a less rigid design.
There is therefore a need for employers to build an infrastructure that supports the future of work now. This process may include the following:
- Identifying and developing the types of workers that will be needed.
- Determining the technology needs of various departments or units.
- Conducting gap analysis to identify gaps in the present and future needs.
The question now is how are you and your business adapting? For help and assistance through a free consulting session, make your booking here: Book me for a free consulting session