Over the last few years we all know there has been transformative changes in the workplace, the critical role of technology, and the ongoing debate between remote and in-office work. Enterprises are still pushing for staff to come into the office more frequently and are finding persuasive ways to entice their employees back into the building. I sat down with some of the team at Cisco at Cisco Live 2024 in Melbourne to discuss the future of AI, remote work and education.
The Remote Work Revolution
Now, remote and virtual meetings are foundational to the modern business landscape. Anupam Trehan, Vice President, People & Communities at Cisco acknowledges the incredible strides technology has made, enabling high-quality virtual meetings that save both time and money.
Trehan explains how “remote work is no longer just a convenience—it’s a necessity, especially for international collaborations where travel can be prohibitive.”
Face-to-Face vs. Virtual Interactions
The conversation then pivots to the value comparison between face-to-face and virtual meetings. While technology has made virtual meetings more impactful, there are still distinct benefits to in-person interactions, particularly when it comes to fostering relationships and instilling company culture.
Trehan shares an observation“Organisations often want new employees to be physically present to imbibe the company culture and build cohesion, rather than just clock in hours.”
Productivity and Trust in the Workplace
The misconception that physical presence equates to productivity. Trust is crucial, they argue, for remote work to function effectively. Trehan illuminated that the future of work will be increasingly flexible, shedding rigid definitions of ‘hybrid work’.
Industry-Specific Requirements and Technological Adaptability
Certain industries still necessitate physical presence due to regulatory and privacy concerns. However, the broader focus remains on maximising the value of office spaces for trust and productivity. The need for a diverse workforce, driven by consumer demands for inclusivity. Flexible working arrangements enabled by advanced technology are key to achieving this, with Trehan envisioning the office as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and experiences, rather than routine tasks and beyond the ‘cubicle’ concept.
Impact of AI and the Future of Workforce Development
Guy Diedrich, Senior Vice President and Global Innovation Officer, at Cisco discusses AI’s role from the lens of learning and development. The Executive portrays a future where technology, AI included, will continue to blur the lines between personal and professional spheres, presenting both exciting opportunities and daunting challenges. Diedrich and Trehan agree that while AI and technology can enhance productivity and efficiency, individuals must cultivate a mix of technical skills (technology quotient – TQ) and soft skills like creativity and problem-solving.
“For instance, despite AI tutors providing personalised learning, the importance of continuous tech skill development can’t be overstated,” Trehan notes.
Educational Paradigms
Diedrich critiques traditional university education for IT, highlighting the obsolescence of a four-year degree in an time where technology evolves faster than ever. He predicts a shift towards module-based, on-demand learning, essential for keeping pace with technological advancements.
“Future skilling will be more instant and personalised” he asserts.
Diedrich also suggests that companies may increasingly require employees to quickly up skill to stay competitive. The growing relevance of certifications over traditional degrees in fields like cybersecurity, where 80% of jobs require practical skills more than formal education.
Preparedness for Quantum Computing and Beyond
While AI is currently at the forefront, quantum computing is on the horizon, anticipated to become prominent by the late 2020s or early 2030s.
“With rapid tech churn, such as the move from AI to quantum computing anticipated in the late 2020s to early 2030s, a four-year degree could become outdated within just 18 months in certain industries.” Added Diedrich.
This turnover demands agile learning strategies, moving away from long-term educational commitments to more frequent, skill-specific courses. Trehan reinforced the necessity of ethical and responsible tech adoption, advocating curiosity as the driving force behind innovation.
