Today, executives have to cut through a lot of hype around automation. Leaders need a clear-eyed way to think about how these technologies will specifically affect their organizations. The right question isn’t which jobs are going to be replaced, but rather, what work will be redefined, and how? Based on our work with a number of organizations grappling with these issues, we’ve found that the following four-step approach can help.
Thinking Through How Automation Will Affect Your Workforce
Start by assessing tasks, not jobs.
April 20, 2017
Summary.
Because the hype around automation is bound to continue, leaders need a clear-eyed way to think about how these technologies will impact their organizations. A thoughtful approach to automation must consider not which jobs are going to be replaced, but rather, what work will be redefined, and how. Start by focusing on the specific tasks automation could do, not by thinking about entire jobs or specific technologies. Then, make sure you understand that there are different types of automation, from robotic process automation to cognitive automation to social robotics. After you understand how these technologies might take over certain tasks, it’s your job to manage that transition — and re-envision your organization for the future.
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Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Digital Intelligence . Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Excel in a world that's being continually transformed by technology.