Age Of Automation Sped Up By COVID-19
The recent pandemic just hastened the pace of something that was already in motion.
We were already entering the Age of Automation which is now going to be accelerated by the global crisis that we are now facing.
Companies around the world saw their entire business models upended due to this virus. Supply chains were interrupted by being overly dependent upon one area of the world for manufacturing. At the same time, we see demand collapsing since workers are being furloughed as businesses were shut down.
Robots, Artificial Intelligence, and Drones are nothing new to people. These topics were discussed for decades. They are, however, going to be embraced to a greater degree than they were before.
The trend was just ratcheted up a notch. Companies are going to do all they can to prevent themselves being in this position again. Being able to automate their businesses will enable them to keep operating should something like this happen again.
After all, robots do not get sick or need vacations.
The next decade will see society altered in ways we have not seen before. Automation will penetrate our businesses, homes, careers, and family lives. How this all turns out is hard to tell.
The biggest challenge is that we are ill prepared for what is taking place. Our workforce does not have the skills for the digital age, if there are even jobs to fill. Tens of millions of jobs are likely going to be eliminated as we move forward.
One benefit we should see is that 3rd party and rent seekers are likely to be eliminated over time. As technology advances, "paper pushing" companies are no longer required.
As stated, this is a path we were already on. We see the impact in the financial and retail sectors, two where the shift started decades ago.
Unfortunately for many, we are likely to see other industries affected in a similar manner.
It is likely that we now see things moved up a couple years because of this virus. What was going to take place in 2023-2024 is now going to happen in 2021-2022.
How will society handle it? This is going to be a difficult question to answer.
The beginning of protests against the lockdown has instilled a previously laking hope in me. That standing up for our rights will be requured to make a smooth transition into the social change of which you speak, in my opinion.
Automation and the efficiency of today's production has brought greater abundance than ever before. The problem is that under the present economic system abundence creates poverty through its boom and bust cycles.
Hopefully with great abundance that things like 3D Printers will bring there will be no need of ideology for all to receive according to their need. ✌