1.

0 Introduction

In today's digital age, the computerization of operations within organizations has

become a common practice to streamline processes and increase efficiency.
However, there is a misconception that computerizing operations inevitably leads to
unemployment. This belief is often based on biased conclusions and fails to consider
the broader impacts and benefits of technology integration in the workplace.

2.0 THE BIAS IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COMPUTERIZING OPERATIONS AND

UNEMPLOYMENT

Computerizing operations has become essential in modern business, aiming to

enhance efficiency and reduce costs. However, the impact of this technological shift
on employment is complex. While automation can boost productivity and create
new job opportunities, it can also lead to job displacement and increased
unemployment in certain sectors. Understanding this relationship is crucial for
balancing technological advancement with social and economic stability.

2.1.1 Automation and Job Displacement

Some people believe that computerizing operations leads to unemployment because

automation and digital technologies can replace jobs previously done by humans. In
Zambia, the growing adoption of computers and automated systems in various
sectors has intensified this concern. For instance, banks and financial institutions
increasingly use automated teller machines (ATMs) and online banking, reducing the
need for traditional bank tellers. This shift means that tasks such as depositing
money, transferring funds, or even seeking account information, once handled by
bank staff, are now done with the click of a button or touch of a screen, leaving many
workers anxious about their job security (Kantumoya, 2022).

2.1.2 Technological Adaptation Challenges

Another reason for this belief is the rapid advancement in technology outpacing the
rate at which people can adapt and acquire new skills. In Zambia, many workers,
especially those in older age groups or with limited access to education, find it

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challenging to keep up with new technological trends. As businesses in sectors like
agriculture, retail, and manufacturing embrace computerization for efficiency,
workers without the necessary technical skills may struggle to find new roles,
contributing to fears of unemployment (Banda, 2021). For example, the introduction
of computer-based systems for inventory management in supermarkets can reduce
the need for manual stock clerks, who might not have the skills required to manage
these new systems.

2.1.3 Economic Impact and Power Imbalance

Additionally, there is a concern that computerization benefits employers more than

employees, leading to a power imbalance. Employers might view automation as a
way to cut costs and increase productivity, potentially at the expense of their
workforce. In Zambia, this is seen in the mining sector, where automation in mineral
processing and machinery operation can reduce the number of jobs available for
local communities (Mwansa, 2023). Many fear that while companies save on wages
and increase profits through automation, the workers who lose their jobs are left to
fend for themselves without adequate support or retraining opportunities.

2.1.4 Cultural Biases and Traditional Practices

Moreover, cultural and economic biases contribute to the belief that

computerization leads to unemployment. In some parts of Zambia, there is a deep-
rooted trust in traditional methods and manual labour, which is often perceived as
more reliable and secure. The sudden shift to computerized operations can be seen
as disruptive and threatening to these established ways of working (Chanda, 2021).
For example, in rural areas where small-scale farming is common, the introduction of
automated irrigation systems or digital tools for crop management may be viewed
with suspicion, as it could replace the roles of local farmhands and labourers, who
are essential to the community’s livelihood.

2.2 Argument against this biased belief

The belief that computerizing operations inevitably leads to unemployment is often

exaggerated. Doing this can create new job opportunities and enhance productivity,

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leading to economic growth. Arguing against the notion that computerization
inherently increases unemployment, highlighting its potential to generate more
diverse and skilled jobs.

2.2.1 Job Creation Through Technology

Contrary to the belief that computerizing operations causes unemployment,

technology often creates new job opportunities. When businesses adopt new
technologies, they frequently require skilled workers to design, implement, and
maintain these systems. In Zambia, for instance, the rise of digital finance has led to
the emergence of jobs in software development, cybersecurity, and customer
support for online banking services. Furthermore, new industries such as tech
startups and digital marketing firms have emerged, providing employment
opportunities that did not exist before (Deloitte, 2021).

2.2.2 Enhancing Productivity

Technology can significantly enhance productivity, allowing businesses to achieve

more with less effort. This increase in productivity can lead to higher economic
growth and the creation of additional jobs. For example, in Zambia’s agricultural
sector, the use of automated irrigation systems and drones for monitoring crops can
boost yields and reduce waste. This not only benefits farmers by increasing their
profits but also creates jobs related to the production, sale, and servicing of these
technologies (World Bank, 2020).

2.2.3 Economic Growth and Diversification

Technological advancements contribute to overall economic growth by diversifying

the economy and fostering innovation. In Zambia, sectors such as
telecommunications, e-commerce, and renewable energy have expanded due to
technological advancements. For instance, the growth of mobile money services has
not only provided financial inclusion to many Zambians but also created jobs in
mobile app development, user support, and digital payment systems ( Acemoglu,
2018). As the economy grows and diversifies, it can support more jobs across
different sectors.

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2.2.4 Education and Skill Development

The introduction of new technologies encourages the development of new skills and
educational opportunities. In Zambia, the increasing demand for IT professionals and
tech-savvy workers has led to the establishment of computer science and
engineering programmes in universities and technical colleges. These educational
advancements prepare students for jobs in the digital economy, such as software
engineering, data analysis, and network administration (Nyambe, 2021). By
equipping people with the skills needed for modern jobs, technology can help reduce
unemployment in the long term.

2.3 Evidence that Computerising operations has more benefits

In Zambia, e-commerce has emerged as a key sector where computerization has led
to significant business expansion and job growth. Afrishop, a Zambian online
marketplace, has leveraged digital platforms to connect local sellers with a broader
customer base. By using e-commerce technology, Afrishop has expanded its
operations beyond physical stores, creating numerous jobs in logistics, IT and
customer service, (Gregory, 2016).

Logistics companies, such as ZamPost, have also benefited from the growth of e-
commerce. As more people shop online, the demand for reliable delivery services
has increased. This has led to the creation of jobs for delivery drivers, warehouse
staff, and customer support representatives who help manage orders and
shipments. Additionally, the growth of e-commerce has spurred the need for digital
marketing specialists and website developers to support online sales, further
contributing to job creation (Mwanza, 2021).

2.3.1 Healthcare

In the healthcare sector, the adoption of digital tools has created new roles and
expanded services in Zambia. Medsaf, a Zambian health tech company, uses
technology to improve the supply chain for pharmaceuticals. By implementing digital
tracking systems and online ordering platforms, Medsaf has streamlined the

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distribution of medicines, creating jobs in health informatics, IT support, and supply
chain management (Gregory, 2016).

Telemedicine has also grown in Zambia, especially in remote areas where access to
healthcare is limited. Companies like TeleHealth Zambia provide virtual consultations
using digital tools, allowing patients to connect with doctors without travelling long
distances. This has led to the creation of roles in telemedicine support, such as
telehealth coordinators and IT technicians who maintain the systems that facilitate
virtual healthcare, (Chui, 2016).

2.3.2 Expanding Financial Services

The banking sector in Zambia has experienced significant transformation through

computerization, leading to job growth and expanded services. Zanaco, one of
Zambia's largest banks, has integrated digital banking services such as mobile
banking apps and online account management. This digital shift has increased the
bank’s customer base and created jobs in IT support, cybersecurity, and digital
marketing, (Chui, 2016).

Moreover, the rise of mobile money services, such as Airtel Money and MTN Mobile
Money, has facilitated financial inclusion for many Zambians who previously did not
have access to traditional banking. These services rely on agents who manage mobile
money transactions, creating thousands of jobs across the country (KPMG, 2022).
The technology behind mobile money has also led to new roles in software
development and digital financial services.

2.3.3 Enhancing Productivity and Employment

In agriculture, digital technology has improved productivity and created jobs in

Zambia. Zazu Africa, an agritech company, uses mobile technology to provide
farmers with access to information on market prices, weather forecasts, and farming
advice. This service helps farmers make better decisions, increasing their productivity
and income.

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By digitizing agricultural services, Zazu Africa has created roles in IT development,
field support, and customer service. Additionally, the use of drones and automated
irrigation systems in large farms has led to the need for technicians who can operate
and maintain this equipment, contributing to job growth in the agricultural
technology sector (Chanda, 2020).

3.0 Summary

I agree that computerization, rather than causing unemployment, drives economic

growth, creates new job opportunities, and transforms existing roles. By increasing
efficiency and productivity, technology helps businesses expand and innovate. It is
essential, however, to focus on continuous education and adaptation to ensure that
the workforce can take full advantage of technological advancements and thrive in
the evolving economy.

4.0 Conclusion

In conclusion, while there are concerns that computerization leads to

unemployment, it often results in economic growth, new job creation, and the
transformation of existing roles rather than outright job losses. In Zambia, e-
commerce, healthcare, banking, and agriculture have all benefited from technology,
creating numerous new jobs and enhancing productivity. As digital tools and
automation continue to evolve, it is crucial to focus on ongoing education and
adaptation to harness the benefits of these technological advancements, ensuring
that the workforce can meet the changing demands of the modern economy and
thrive in new roles.

TABLE CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction...................................................................................................1

2.0 THE BIAS IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COMPUTERIZING OPERATIONS AND

UNEMPLOYMENT....................................................................................................1

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 2.1.1 Automation and Job Displacement........................................................1

2.1.2 Technological Adaptation Challenges....................................................1

2.1.3 Economic Impact and Power Imbalance...............................................2

2.1.4 Cultural Biases and Traditional Practices..............................................2

2.2 Argument against this biased belief.............................................................3

2.2.1 Job Creation Through Technology.........................................................3

2.2.2 Enhancing Productivity...........................................................................3

2.2.3 Economic Growth and Diversification....................................................3

2.2.4 Education and Skill Development...........................................................4

2.3 Evidence that Computerising operations has more benefits ......................4

2.3.1 Healthcare...............................................................................................5

2.3.2 Expanding Financial Services.................................................................5

2.3.3 Enhancing Productivity and Employment...............................................5

3.0 Summary.......................................................................................................6

4.0 Conclusion.....................................................................................................6

5.0 References...................................................................................................7

5.0 References

Acemoglu, D., & Restrepo, P. (2018), Artificial Intelligence, Automation and Work. NBER
Working. National Bureau of Economic Research. Cambridge.

Chanda, L. (2020), Digital Agriculture: Boosting Productivity in Zambia. Copperbelt

University. Ndola.

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Chui, M., Manyika, J., & Miremadi, M. (2016), Where Machines Could Replace Humans—
and Where They Can't (Yet). McKinsey Quarterly. McKinsey & Company.New York

Mwanza, T. (2021), E-commerce in Zambia: Driving Economic Growth and Job

Creation. University of Zambia.Lusaka.