Automation is increasingly being applied across all aspects of life, especially in manufacturing technology. So, what cannot be automated, and what do you need to prepare for now to survive in a future dominated by advanced technology?
According to Nikkei Asian Review, automation poses a threat to jobs in low-skilled manufacturing sectors across Asia. In the U.S., a recent study by Forrester estimated that 10% of jobs in the United States would be automated in 2019, while another study by McKinsey predicts that nearly half of U.S. jobs could be automated within the next decade.
Do these figures signal a looming unemployment crisis in the future, where machines will handle everything? The answer is NO. Let’s take a look at the following examples to see how advanced technology and humans can “collaborate.”
1. The harmony between humans and machines
In medicine, doctors use artificial intelligence (A.I.) to enhance the diagnostic and treatment process. In recent trials, some forms of automated image recognition have outperformed experienced specialists by 50% in analyzing malignant tumors on X-ray and CT-scan images. The error rate for machine analysis was 0%, compared to 7% for the group of human experts. In this case, machines truly deliver exceptional efficiency.
However, sitting down to discuss with families the best and most suitable treatment options for each patient’s condition is something only doctors can do. This aspect is unlikely to be automated in the near future.
The same applies to the job of a bartender. In some developed countries, the task of drink mixing has been almost entirely replaced by automated machines. Yet, these cafes still require real humans—not necessarily for mixing drinks, but because staff often play the role of a confidant or conversational partner for customers. Guests often strike up conversations with bartenders, and in this case, we can divide the situation into two parts: one side involves automating repetitive tasks (like diagnosing diseases and mixing drinks), while the other focuses on human interaction (listening to patients or chatting with customers).
2. What can automation not replace?
a. Emotions:
First, emotions play a crucial role in human communication. Empathy and understanding provide useful advice tailored to individuals in specific situations. Machines may be essential for analyzing data, but human sensitivity to future trends helps make more accurate decisions. The complexity and subtlety of emotions have proven to be a significant challenge to fully comprehend, making it extremely difficult to develop automated systems capable of replicating them in the future.
b. Context:
Adjusting decisions based on context is another major challenge for automation. For instance, every different situation—no matter how big or small—can lead to different responses and outcomes. If someone leaves an organization or a new member joins, it can influence how employees interact or share information.
It can be said that emotional management and the influence of context are essential aspects of work. Soft skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, decision-making, effective communication, adaptability, and sound judgment, are highly valued and remain difficult to replace.