IT Project Management

Mar 1 2008   1:30PM GMT

Luddites of the 21st century



Posted by: Yusuf Salwati
Project management

According to merriam-webster online dictionary, a Luddite is “one of a group of early 19th century English workmen destroying laborsaving machinery as a protest; broadly: one who is opposed to especially technological change.”

As the spread of technological changes is already upon us, will we see the luddites of the 21st century? The advancement in technology is threatening the jobs of many workers, especially farmers around the world. We see governments imposing tariffs, import/export restrictions, and giving subsidies to protect the jobs of its workers, but will these steps will really stop the technological advances which will really make some jobs obsolete?

Companies and managers will do a great service to their employees by keeping them informed about the advances in technology and offer training options to those who are ready to embrace the new realities of their work place.
One advice I always give when I am managing a project is “never stop learning.” you may have a union membership or the government protecting your job, but that wont last for long, sooner or later, technological changes may make your job obsolete and being a luddite wont help you keep your job.

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