Will Technology Steal Your Job In 2016?

As 2015 comes to a close there is mounting evidence that technology, machines and robots are replacing millions of jobs in all types of industries. But to the surprise of many commentators, traditionally secure jobs in the professions are now also under threat.

The professions

The professions with their high levels of expertise and knowledge are usually thought to be immune from the onslaught of automation, technology and the internet.

After all how can a machine replace the creativity and expertise of an accountant, a doctor or a lawyer? How can a machine substitute an experienced and highly trained professional?

But, it seems, the work of the professions is being replaced or, at least, undergoing unrecognisable changed with the spread of technology in all its guises and disguises.

Whether cautious change or radical replacement becomes the trend the professions will be disrupted at a greater rate in the next few decades than at any time in recent centuries.

Technology, the internet and artificially intelligent machines will cause havoc and force redundancy and retirement in areas as varied as accountants and architects, lawyers and lectures, sign writers and surgeons, teachers and technologist, and waiters and writers.

It may sound like the end of the world as we know it but it may also usher in a new and better workplace that serves the needs of the customer.

Disruption

Like all major workplace disruptions it will create opportunity for those with flexibility and foresight, and threaten those who fear and fret about the future.

In a disrupted scenario, work will be replaced in law through the use of online dispute resolutions, accountancy through the use of tax return apps, and teaching through massive open online courses.

In a less disrupted change scenario, the professions will continue in a similar vein but use technology to a much greater extent to drive efficiency and improve quality and service.

The exponential growth in the speed of computers and the power of artificial intelligence coupled with the reach of the internet means it will soon be possible for machines to excel at most tasks.

The current trend of replacing traditionally people-centred occupations with computers is proving successful and therefore gathering pace at an unstoppable rate.

In fact, the most likely barrier to future progress will be our willingness to allow technology to take control of areas where we want to retain responsibility for decision-making.

Millions of jobs once considered the domain of humans can now be done with the aid of technology and the trend will continue to infinity and beyond.

SO, technology is destroying jobs in all industries and is now turning its attention to the professions.