Computer says, you're fired: how technology dictates the way we work

 

Watson, a computer system developed by IBM, made headlines around the world earlier this year when it beat established Jeopardy champions Ken Jennings and Brad Rutter in two televised exhibition games.

 

Jennings later claimed the format of the game – which relies on quick reflexes as much as the ability to answer trivia questions – favoured the computer, suggesting that without the buzzer he would have won "every time". However, he was impressed enough to semi-jokingly conclude: "I, for one welcome our new computer overlords."

 

Until now it has been assumed that job growth will be in the information economy. This assumption has underpinned attempts to expand access to higher education (though not overall spending). However, an increasing number of technology analysts believe recent developments in computing may mean that some white-collar jobs are more vulnerable to technological change than those of manual workers. Even highly skilled professions, such as law, may not be immune.

 

Read the full article: http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2011/may/14/computer-technology-changing-work

And the award for most obvious story of the week goes to this one.

 

Computers have been taking over from people for a while now, how quick is to mail merge letters out or use a spreadsheet for profit/loss?