The world is on the cusp of a transformative era as the Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR) fast approaches. It is predicted that 5IR will prioritise greater collaboration between humans and machines through cyber-physical systems and technologies.
This emergence of new technology will also have a major impact on the workplace and by extension, how workers earn a living. From automation and AI integration to flexible work arrangements and data-driven decision-making, the 5IR may refine and have a profound impact on workers.
The Rise of Automation and AI Integration
With advancements in artificial intelligence and automation, the workplace is witnessing a radical shift in operations. Arduous tasks that would previously be done by workers can now be completed with the click of a button.
Upskilling And Reskilling
While this could negatively impact workers, it could be beneficial and allow workers to place a greater amount of energy into more creative and strategic aspects of their jobs. Workers will be forced to embrace new technologies and upskill themselves if they don’t want to be left behind in 5IR.
Rather than replacing jobs entirely, machines will be used to complement human skills and capabilities.
Automation and artificial intelligence will require workers to upskill and reskill themselves. The rapid emergence of technology could create a skills gap.
Workers may be encouraged to continue learning and develop the skills needed to use this technology.
Remote Work
The internet has improvised a great deal over the last decade and people can now access real-time data from any location in the world. This means that physical office spaces are not the only place people can work from.
The viability of remote work was demonstrated clearly during the Covid-19 pandemic which showed that people could be just as productive at home as they would be in an office. The emergence of a hybrid working environment could feature prominently during the 5IR.
Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
The emergence of new technology and computer systems requires people to place a greater emphasis on cyber-security and safeguarding sensitive information. It may be in the best interest of employers to invest substantially in cyber-security to protect their systems.
The Fifth Industrial Revolution is set to be a transformative period in human history. The challenge lies in recognising the indispensable value of the human touch amidst the surge of automation.
