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Manish Sriram

Mrs. McClendon

PCIS

12/5/2023

EOL#2: Technology’s Evidently Positive Impact On Business And Workplace

The complex relationship between technology and the realm of business and work has

clearly shaped the trajectory of human progress over time. From the mechanization of production

during the Industrial Revolution to the present era of digital transformation, technology's impact

has been both positive and negative. While recognizing the undeniable advantages it brings, it is

also important to recognize the potential challenges, enabling an understanding of how

technology has fundamentally altered the past, present and future of our professional scape.

The integration of technology has single-handedly one the most beneficial and positive

introductions to humanity. At the heart of this relationship lies support promoting that

technology, with balance, stands as an incredible force that contributes unmistakeable positivity

to the workforce. Among the complexity of this relationship, evidence suggests that

technological advancements have played a pivotal role in boosting efficiency, sparking

innovation, and fostering connectivity. While there are few challenges associated with

technology, the various references highlight evident positive benefits that technology has

provided to us, enabling an era known for increased productivity and global collaboration

through all aspects.

One of the most important pillars of technology's positive influence on business and work

is its ability to enhance productivity. This enhancement is possible through the automation of

routine tasks, a theme highlighted by Autor (2015). The mechanization of processes, joined with
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the integration of artificial intelligence in various sectors, frees valuable resources from

repetitive tasks. This liberty, as discussed by Brynjolfsson and McAfee (2014), allows the human

workforce to redirect its focus towards more creative and strategic aspects of work (McAfee 87).

An example lies in the manufacturing sector, where AI-driven systems control production

processes and significantly reduce error rates compared to workers. This not only fosters a more

efficient work environment but also decreases the rate of errors, contributing to improved overall

productivity.

A powerful role played by technology is in changing basic barriers, providing an era of

global connectivity and collaboration. Manyika, Chui, and colleagues (2016) highlight the

transformative impact of digital platforms in connecting businesses with a global workforce.

Virtual collaboration tools, such as video conferencing and cloud-based management, effectively

combat geographical limitations, allowing teams to collaborate seamlessly across various

borders (Manyika 43). This connection not only broadens business opportunities but also

increases the diversity in the work environment. The result is an atmosphere for innovation and

inclusivity to flourish, where a global workforce collaborates seamlessly, breaking down the

limits of distance and fostering a more connected and dynamic workplace.

The evolution of technology has completely redefined the basic structures of work,

introducing flexibility and promoting a healthier work-life balance. As highlighted by Tapscott

(2016), the rise of remote work with digital technologies stands as a proof to this transformation.

Beyond contributing to increased job satisfaction, this shift in work structures has opened up

employment opportunities for individuals previously limited geographically (Tapscott 175). The

flexibility provided by technology allows for diverse lifestyles and needs, creating an

environment that resonates with the changing expectations and priorities of the modern
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workforce. This adaptability not only enhances the quality of work but also contributes to a

healthier work-life balance, fostering employee satisfaction and well-being.

In addition to increasing productivity and allowing global collaboration, technology has

revolutionized decision-making processes within businesses. The idea of data-driven

technologies provides organizations with unprecedented insights and analytical capabilities.

Manyika, Chui, and colleagues (2016) emphasize the role of data analytics in shaping strategic

decisions. Businesses can harness datasets to gain an understanding of market trends, customer

behavior, and operational efficiency (Manyika 138) . This data-driven approach enables

informed decision-making, empowering businesses to adapt swiftly to changing circumstances

and make strategic choices that align with their goals. The integration of data analytics into

decision-making processes exemplifies technology's positive impact in enhancing the agility and

resilience of businesses in today's workscape.

Despite the influence of technology on business and work, a leading concern centers

around job loss. Critics argue that the increasing automation and integration of artificial

intelligence may lead to unemployment, especially in industries where routine tasks are easily

replicable. The fear is that as technology continues to advance, certain job roles may become

obsolete, resulting in workforce displacement and economic issues.

Acknowledging this concern, it is important to recognize the historical pattern where

technology has often created new job opportunities rather than solely contributing to job loss, as

emphasized by Autor and his colleagues (Autor 156). The advent of technology may indeed

eliminate certain routine roles, but it also gives rise to new, more specialized positions that

require upskilling and adaptation. For example, the rise of automation in manufacturing has not

only streamlined production processes but has also created jobs related to the maintenance and
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oversight of these automated systems. Therefore, while technology may bring about shifts in the

job market, its overall impact on employment trends is more clear, enabling the evolution of the

workforce rather than a complete displacement.

Another pressing issue surrounding technology in the workplace involves privacy and

security concerns. As businesses rely on digital technologies to store and process information,

there is a plausible risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and privacy violations. Critics

argue that the rapid integration of technology may outpace the development of robust security

measures, leaving businesses and individuals vulnerable to cyber threats.

Addressing these concerns is important, and the landscape of technology itself is

evolving to control privacy and security risks. Stricter regulations, such as the General Data

Protection Regulation (GDPR), are being implemented to safeguard individuals' privacy rights

and privileges. Additionally, advancements in cybersecurity technologies, as highlighted by

Manyika, Chui, and colleagues (2016), are actively addressing these concerns. Businesses are

increasingly investing in secure infrastructure, encryption technologies, and employee training

programs to ensure the responsible and secure use of technology (Manyika 190). The ongoing

development of security measures supports a commitment to harnessing the benefits of

technology while safeguarding privacy and maintaining the integrity of information.

In the dynamic relationship between technology, business, and work, the journey of

transformation unfolds. While acknowledging concerns of job displacement and privacy risks,

the overwhelming evidence points towards technology's predominantly positive role. From

bolstering productivity through automation to fostering global collaboration and reshaping work

structures for enhanced flexibility, technology has become an integral force in shaping the

professional landscape in and out. The evolution of technology is not without its challenges, but
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important measures and ongoing adaptations support a commitment to utilizing the benefits of

technology responsibly. As businesses and individuals navigate this ever-changing relationship

through time, the holistic impact of technology on business and work emerges as a powerful

catalyst for progress, innovation, and a more interconnected global workforce.

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Works Cited

Autor, D. H. "Why Are There Still So Many Jobs? The History and Future of Workplace

Automation." Journal of Economic Perspectives, vol. 29, no. 3, 2015, pp. 3-30.

Brynjolfsson, Erik, and Andrew McAfee. The Second Machine Age: Work, Progress, and

Prosperity in a Time of Brilliant Technologies. Norton, 2014.

Manyika, James. "Jobs Lost, Jobs Gained: What the Future of Work Will Mean for Jobs, Skills,

and Wages." McKinsey & Company, 2017. 11 5 2023.

Chui, Michael, James Manyika, and Mehdi Miremadi. "Where Machines Could Replace

Humans—and Where They Can't (Yet)." McKinsey & Company, 2016. 11 5 2023.