The+Effects+of+ICT+on+Patterns+of+Employment

=The Effects of ICT on Patterns of Employment=

Almost everybody is used to working with a computer, but most people are not aware of how fast they are developing and how this development effects our daily lives. Cars were invented over a hundred years ago but have not changed much, however, computer technology is doubleing their performance every year!

The introduction of computers and microprocessor controlled machinery has extremely changed employment patterns. There are three main effects:


 * A loss of jobs**
 * computers making jobs more efficient so less staff are needed.


 * New jobs created**
 * technical staff to maintain and manage the computers and networks.


 * Retraining of staff**
 * existing staff to change over to use computers.
 * staff to keep up as software and technology keeps developing.

Most jobs that were lost had tedious tasks in them. Like on an assembly line, where workers do the same thing all day every day. Machines replaced these jobs, computers can control the robots 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This means that the company had a much higher income as they don't have to pay the robots. The positive effect of the introduction of computers in industries were new jobs, mainly the operation and maintenance of the machines. The modernisation of workplaces meant that a considerable amount of people needed to be trained to work with the new technology. The rapid advances of ICT meant that retraining was a must over time so that people could keep their jobs.

As a factory invests in computerised equipment some of its workers may be made redundant. Its productivity rises as its labour costs are reduced and it will become more competitive. If a company does not invest in computerised equipment then higher labour costs and lower productivity will means its products will be less competitive. This could result in the company failing and jobs being lost anyway. This is an issue that employers, trade unions and governments have to face.
 * Why companies invest in new technology**
 * What can happen if companies do not make this investment**

Mainly the internet made it possible for people to "telework". This involves working outside the office, this has a great possitive effect on pollution and traffic as the individual does not have to travel to work by any means. This allows people in remote places to work and contribute to an organisation hundreds of kilometers away.
 * Flexible Employment**