Social media and mobile technology have impacted the way we work. In this topic page we consider current thinking about technology in the workplace and the future of work, looking at social media and learning and development in a socially networked age.

Latest research reports

You can find practical guidance on how technology is shaping work by reading our factsheet below:

HR tech revolution: friend or foe?

The world of work is changing fast and technology is changing even faster. Research suggests that in the next 20 years at least 35% of the current jobs in the UK are at risk of computerisation or automation. As organisations communicate, collaborate and innovate is evolving, new skills and roles are gaining prominence. But are organisations and individuals prepared for this pace of change? And in this new technological landscape, can the future of work be human?

In this podcast we chat with Dr Nicola Millard, BT Global Services, David Woodward, SDWorx and CIPD’s own David D’Souza about the ways in which technology is affecting work and working lives. From flexible working and automation to analytic reporting and office environments, we explore how technology is changing the way organisations operate, the effect this is having on its employees and the challenges (and opportunities) that HR and L&D can face.

Listen to the podcast below to hear the discussion
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Wearable technology

We’re becoming increasingly addicted to measuring our own performance; how fast we run, how many steps we take, how much and what kind of sleep we get. Needless to say, wearable technology has enormous potential for businesses too; understanding employee data can help guide investment in many business areas including engagement, culture and training and development. But how can businesses manage the opportunity which their employee data can bring with the ethical responsibility of how, when and why it’s used?

Listen to the podcast below to hear the discussion
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Are robots stealing our jobs?

Robots aren’t taking over our jobs just yet, but automation is already augmenting many roles. Much of the current discussion on how new technology stands to change the world of work is limited. Debates typically centre on the extent to which humans are going to be ‘replaced’ or which jobs or tasks are most at risk of automation. This narrative is driven by the assumption that all we care about is productivity and since machines are seen to be much more efficient with the potential to make better decisions than humans – it can only lead to one conclusion. But in a world that is more connected than ever before – individuals are increasingly feeling isolated and desire human interaction.

This podcast explores how people and technologies can augment each other in the workplace, through a series of case studies, providing important food for thought for both organisations and individuals.

Listen to the podcast below to hear the discussion
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Social media

The CIPD have published a range of resources that explore the potential benefits of using social media within organisations.

Podcasts

Social media: what's the point?

This podcast looks at the reasons social media has been slow to take off in the workplace, how organisations could begin to weave it into their work and the benefits and challenges this may present.

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Podcasts

Social media - no longer a risk to be managed?

How are organisations managing the social media revolution? We talk to Penguin Random House, Informa and Foviance about how they’re embracing social media and using it to encourage collaboration, knowledge-sharing and building community.

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