The best way to prepare for the future is to predict it. While it may not be feasible to define the future perfectly, it’s possible through study, research, and scientifically guided forecasts to learn the recurring patterns that influence how work is done and develop plans around those expected plans.
Several studies are being conducted to decipher and grasp what the future of work will look like in 2022 and beyond.
Considering how rapidly things change in our world today, industries need to get even with the various workplace innovations that are shaping the industry and trends to emerge in 2022.
Currently, there are tools, software, and platforms that make digital work easier. There are also code-compliant, prefabricated industrial stairs, and it’s only a matter of time before other innovations are implemented.
But specifically, the following workplace innovations and trends should be on your watchlist in 2022:
1. AI Augmentations
You have probably heard of artificial intelligence (AI). According to the World Economic Forum, AI will create about 97 million new jobs by 2025. AI has come to stay, and it’s changing many things.
Workplaces will find it more beneficial to integrate AI technology into their operations. Through this technology, they can automate part of their repetitive work, thereby saving the workers time and effort and enabling them to have more time to focus on other areas of work that need more human involvement.
2. Big Data And Analytics
Organizations need different kinds of data to operate effectively. This data has to be collated and administered effectively for proper outcomes. To ensure the agility of their systems, organizations must treat the process of capturing and storing data very seriously.
Over time, the usual manual methods of handling data have become inefficient. Hence, organizations seek better ways to manage and administer data for efficiency.
This demand will increase the need for big data analytics. This data analysis system improves the efficiency of the data management process and reduces innovation costs.
3. Hybrid Working
A workplace can be either centralized, remote, or hybrid. A hybrid workplace model merges both the centralized and remote working models. Sometimes, workers need to work from a centralized workplace, and other times, they can work from home or any additional space outside of the workplace.
In 2022, it’s more likely that more organizations will adopt the hybrid working model than ever before. Consequently, workers will choose between different work models and not be coerced to settle for whatever work model the organization offers.
When working onsite, companies still need to provide ease for workers by adopting office trends such as metal stairs and other smart office systems.
4. Cloud Computing
Data storage and protection are big deals for organizations. Data collected technologically can transform how manufacturing processes are conducted in significant ways. However, organizations must ensure that their collated data is safe and readily accessible upon demand.
Unfortunately, storing and safeguarding a large amount of data on servers can be expensive. With cloud computing options, however, organizations can preserve and access data at a faster and cheaper rate. Cloud computing is an already established trend with a high potential to grow stronger and broader.
5. 5G Implementation
5G technology is one of the most recent technological innovations. The network’s high speed and flexibility satisfy internet users’ needs for high browsing speeds and credible, highly secure internet connectivity.
With these advantages, organizations will enjoy easier and faster access to their stored data, files, and programs without delay. The strength of the network will also enable organizations to adopt cloud computing, another significant trend, quickly.
By doing so, they’ll not have to depend absolutely on the internal memory of their devices for data and information storage.
6. Prioritization of Well-Being
As the pandemic continues to disrupt the state of work, causing workers to experience more stress, organizations will alter their priorities to accommodate both the physical and mental health of their workers.
Managerial actions such as increasing workers’ benefits and improving workplace experience to become more positive and satisfying will increase. Companies will work towards helping their workers achieve a greater level of work-life balance in a bid to sustain and improve their mental health.
7. Talent Shortages and Reskilling
As of 2021, it’s reported globally that organizations experience a high level of talent shortage. It has become increasingly difficult for companies to find qualified candidates to hire. A lot of organizations went through the year with several job openings.
In 2022, we will see more of these shortages. And this is important because the skills needed across industries are changing rapidly.
A report from the World Economic Forum reveals that about 40 percent of workers across the globe will need to develop new and improve their skills for up to six months by the year 2024.
This improvement will be necessary for them to not only perform their jobs effectively but also retain them. Therefore, the workplace in 2022 will be skill-based.
Times are Changing
The study of trends can help workers and organizations position themselves correctly for the times ahead. Change is one of life’s significant constants.
The world of work will continue to admit diverse and disruptive innovations and trends. And only workers and organizations that are quick to spot these innovations and align with the trends will stand the test of time and change.
