The Integration of Technology in the Workplace: Shaping The future of Work

Now more than ever, the reach and impact of technology in daily life cannot be overstated. The more advanced technology becomes, the more integrated it is into everything we do.

The same can be said for the workplace. The constantly evolving business landscape is one rife with innovation and advancements in technology aimed at enhancing the workplace.

Technology plays a pivotal role in transforming the workplace. Whether it be through facilitation of how work is conducted, enhancements in productivity, innovation in tools and systems, technology is reshaping how businesses operate.?

The logical next question is how the employee fits into the constantly evolving technologically enhanced modern workplace. Through the years, there has been negative reception towards the notion of technological advancements in the workplace with fears stemming of redundancy at the hands of over reliance on technology. The fear comes from the notion that eventually technology will be so advanced that it completely removes the need for human element.

Enhanced Remote Work Capabilities

While no one can say for certain what the future holds, there are plenty of studies that advocate for technological integration more than resistance of technology. Technology when used properly can greatly enhance the workplace.

One common enhancement that is often overlooked is the enhancement to remote work, communication and cloud computing. Without technological initiatives such as Zoom or Teams, remote work would not be as efficient as it currently is. Technologies we take for granted like video conferencing, screensharing, file sharing and real time messaging amongst overs makes teamwork seamless.

Cloud computing allows employees to work from any device, so long as it has internet access. This business continuity as digital files can be accessed anywhere in on the planet.

Increased Productivity and Efficiency

Automation and Artificial intelligence are reshaping the way in which work is approached. AI-powered tools can be applied in a near infinite number of ways and across multiple different industries.

Automation of repetitive tasks can free up employees to focus on other work, focus on more strategic work and improve turn-around time on tasks that would normally take a considerable amount of time to complete without the use of automation.

An example of real life applications of said technological integration can be through the use of AI-tools for data entry, use of 24/hour chat bots to handle customer enquiries, use of analytical tools to gain new insights from large data. In a survey conducted by Michael Page International (SA) (Pty), 63% of participants to the survey that made use of AI-tools and remote working technologies in their jobs stated that their overall productivity has improved.

Future Trends and Innovations

The applications of technologies remain largely limitless as new technologies and applications of said technology are constantly being developed and integrated into the workplace. When looking at current trends, virtual reality technology and augmented reality technology seem to be at the forefront of the latest in technological integration in the workplace.

Full immersion in an augmented reality or virtual reality setting will change the way in which virtual meetings are held between participants, how training experiences are emulated and administered to employees. Even customer experience can be enhanced, virtual reality and augmented reality allow for interactive product demonstrations the likes of which have never been seen. The possibilities and applications are limitless.

The internet of things (IoT) is another technological trend that is predicted to rapidly change the workplace. Through IoT, the literal landscape of the workplace can be enhanced, IoT allows smart office solutions to be integrated into the workplace. Allowing for smart devices across the office to be inter-connected, IoT enabled lighting, heating and security systems enhance the workplace while also reducing operational costs.

Technology cannot be separated from our everyday lives. The modern workplace is one wherein technology is heavily integrated into the core functionalities of the workplace. Employees, employers and customers are encouraged to lean into the technological wave and stay abreast of the current advancements in order to reap the most benefits from technology.