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Work Disrupted
Book

Work Disrupted

Opportunity, Resilience, and Growth in the Accelerated Future of Work

Jeff Schwartz and Suzanne Riss
Wiley, 2021
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Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Applicable
  • Well Structured
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Recommendation

COVID-19 caught most of the business world off-guard, and many continue to struggle with how to proceed in the face of the sweeping changes the global pandemic has wrought. According to business consultant Jeff Schwartz, COVID accelerated trends reshaping the future of work. Whether you are an individual worker wondering how increased automation might affect your employment or a business leader looking to protect your company and employees in this rapidly evolving environment, Schwartz’s realist perspective and practical recommendations will help you embrace new solutions and mind-sets. 

Summary

The COVID-19 pandemic pushed the fast-forward button on developments already underway in the working world.

The onset of the coronavirus pandemic forced organizations and employees to embrace wholesale changes to the world of work that many expected would not occur for decades more. From Zoom conference calls to revamping supply chains, the pandemic underscored the possibilities and perils of the future of work. Businesses that could not adapt could not survive.

When people find new, better ways of accomplishing tasks, that creativity destroys old models and methods. The internet replaced print advertising, for example. But individuals can take an active role in evolving their skills and careers. Business leaders can find opportunities for human-machine collaboration. These developments can inspire policy makers to develop regulatory practices and institutions that support the new world of work.

The future of work will include automation that centers on human creativity and innovation.

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About the Authors

Senior partner at Deloitte Consulting Jeff Schwartz is a global adviser and thought leader regarding the future of work. Suzanne Riss is an award-winning journalist.

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