New Work

New Work or Work 4.0 describes the developments in the working culture due to the influence of digitalisation. 

New Work or Work 4.0 refers to the digitalisation of the working world. This is where computers and machines take over tasks that had up to now been carried out by humans. Working with laptops, smartphones and tablets has long become common practice in offices, however, production processes are also becoming more and more automated. As part of New Work (Work 4.0), it is the responsibility of the employees to program, check and do maintenance on the machines. The aim is to develop technology to such an extent that people no longer need to be on site in the company, but can carry out their work from anywhere in the world and at any time thanks to digitalisation. 

Technology is now even being used for tasks that machines up to now could not have performed, such as medical robots in the operating theatre. The use of “artificial intelligence” and self-learning algorithms enables computers to perform complex tasks independently and even to optimise these processes. This is where computers are superior to people: Computers have the ability to analyse huge quantities of data and derive accurate predictions from it. This technology is for example used in the application process. Software analyses the CVs and certificates of applicants and makes suggestions as to which candidate would best fit the job listing. 

Even though New Work (Work 4.0) contributes greatly to progress, it also presents new challenges. The working world is also changing the requirement profile demanded of employees. Complex IT skills are sometimes required in order to program the computers and machines. There is already a shortage of skilled labour in these professions, which will only become more pronounced moving forward. Jobs for low-skilled workers are disappearing because their jobs can be done faster and more efficiently by machines. The employee profile will change substantially because of New Work. Employees will work more independently in the future and will have to take on more personal responsibility. In order to keep up with the technological developments, employees will need to be adaptable and be willing to keep evolving. Executives will be expected to display a cooperative leadership approach and to coach and motivate their employees. 

Up-to-date IT equipment is also a cost factor for companies. Additionally, IT security and privacy are becoming increasingly important. New Work (Work 4.0) should enable employees to be more flexible in carrying out their work. This is why files are no longer stored locally, but using systems that can also potentially be attacked by hackers. 

Our current situation demonstrates just how important New Work (Work 4.0) can become. Digitally advanced companies were able to allow their employees to continue their work from home.

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