INSIGHTS

Work plays a much broader role in people’s lives than we sometimes acknowledge in organizational discussions. It provides identity. Not in a superficial sense, but in a way that helps people understand who they are and how they fit into the world. It provides structure. It creates rhythm, expectations, and a sense of forward movement. It provides contribution. It gives people a way to apply their skills and effort toward something that produces value. And it provides dignity

For most of modern business history, there has been a relatively consistent relationship between growth and employment. When organizations expanded, they hired more people. When productivity improved, it created space for more jobs, different roles, and, over time, rising living standards. It wasn’t perfect, but it was predictable. Growth and employment were connected. What we’re starting to see now suggests that relationship may be changing.

Technology is constantly evolving, and newer systems often offer better features, capabilities, and performance.