The Future of Work, Collaborative Robots, AI & Automation
Recently, I tuned into an interesting discussion between Stephen Dubner of Freakonomics and David Autor, the M.I.T. economist, about the future of work. The podcast “How to Stop Worrying and Love the Robot Apocalypse” is worth listening to.
Much of their discussion centered on the potential of AI and robotics to collaborate with people and what that may mean for businesses, employees and the nature of work in the future.
As we slide into 2025 with all its well-publicized uncertainties, it’s a sure bet that many, if not most, Furniture World readers will accelerate their adoption of AI to automate marketing, merchandising, communications and operations tasks. David McMahon outlines many of AI’s retail benefits in this November/December 2024 issue. It’s hard to believe that it’s only been two years since ChatGPT launched. Since then, we’ve seen the introduction of a host of furniture retail-specific AI-enabled software applications (visit HFA’s Retail Resource Center at the Vegas Market if you need an update).
It’s interesting how much alignment there is between employee job satisfaction and the adoption of collaborative technologies. In the podcast, Dubner and Autor discuss AI and flexible robots that work alongside human co-workers to improve the work experience by handling repetitive, less pleasant and dangerous tasks. AI can gather business intelligence and use data to make more informed decisions and ensure that necessary follow-up and intra-company communications don’t fall through the cracks. In the near future, collaborative robots and assistive warehouse technology that can both slide and lift will be hugely beneficial in warehousing and delivering big and bulky items.
Adopting AI and other collaborative technology is largely about achieving operational efficiency and serving customers to gain a competitive advantage. However, the question of competitive advantage is nuanced. One solution does not fit every home furnishing niche or every retailer’s optimal customer experience profile.
Should we stop worrying about a robot apocalypse? Maybe, maybe not. The wide range of possible outcomes depends on whether technology is introduced in ways that deliver differentiated customer experiences while remaining consistent with company goals, respecting employees, and promoting a positive future of work.
Wishing You Good Retailing!
Russell Bienenstock
Editorial Director/CEO
russ@furninfo.com
Russell Bienenstock is Editor-in-Chief of Furniture World Magazine, founded 1870. Comments can be directed to him at editor@furninfo.com.