Introduction

Work, an expansive and integral aspect of the human experience, embodies any endeavor that creates value, both for individuals and society at large. Throughout human history, its meaning has undergone dynamic shifts, with the anticipation of a fundamental transformation in the concept of "work" amidst the forthcoming global metamorphosis.

We are the product of our intrinsic nature and cultural influences, navigating the intricate labyrinth of life. Each individual possesses a unique personal history shaped by nature, endowing us with consciousness, intellect, agency, character, and genetic predispositions. Culture, on the other hand, instills tradition, a way of life, a worldview, education, and artistic expression. Within life's labyrinth, we find the opportunity to form relationships and cultivate connections.

In these uncertain times, marked by profound shifts and uncertainties regarding the future of our species, a compelling and optimistic perspective emerges. It prompts us to examine the impending future of work, instigating a collective effort to envision what lies ahead.

The Future of Work

The future of work can be analyzed from multiple vantage points: the perspectives of individuals already engaged in work and those preparing to enter the workforce, as well as the standpoint of organizations employing individuals. Moreover, a comprehensive assessment of work necessitates a global lens, intertwining it with overarching political, economic, sociological, and environmental trends. However, it is paramount to commence this exploration by dissecting the fundamental term "work."

Let us embark on this exploration. Pertinent questions swiftly arise—What constitutes work? How do we perceive its essence? Why is work a necessity? What imparts meaning to our endeavors? A historical analysis of work offers insights to deepen our understanding.

To invigorate individuals within the realm of work, readiness, willingness, and capability are theoretically vital. However, in reality, work is an essential means of subsistence for all. Consequently, a myriad of questions emerge in the minds of individuals—How can I contribute? How long can I endure this role? How can I persist in my pursuits? How should I prepare for emerging roles and occupations? What novel requisites will future work demand? Individuals grapple with career-related concerns and, ultimately, how to secure a comfortable retirement.

For the youth, a host of queries arise. Will higher education adequately equip students for the professional arena? How can secondary and primary education adapt to meet future needs? Will ample work opportunities be available for all? Notably, considerations regarding talent, talent development, and strategic deployment are vital.

A significant concern looms—what role will intelligent AI-based machines assume in the workplace? The discourse on education accompanies us throughout our lifespan. In the near future, we may contemplate whether all education should be viewed as a form of work.

Within organizations, where human effort and technological integration synergize to create value, pertinent questions regarding work come to the forefront. How can we attract the right talent? What strategies optimize workforce deployment? How should we navigate talent development and optimize collective and Collaborative Intelligence? Crafting an ideal structure for the Cyber Age, preparing for emergent societal and market needs, and aligning people's life designs with organizational culture demand careful consideration. Structuring and organizing postformal education is an additional aspect worthy of exploration.

The objectives of this book/course are to accentuate, elucidate, and speculate on trends and events that will define the evolving landscape of work. Based on extensive research, our fundamental hypothesis suggests that a significant portion of societal stakeholders—including governments, corporations, business leaders, employees, and educational institutions—are inadequately prepared for the imminent future of work. Many cling to the notion that the future will mirror the present. However, we stand firm in our conviction that this is a fallacy. Through this book, we aspire to present a fresh perspective, inspiring all to venture beyond their comfort zones and diligently prepare for the future.

In essence, we assert that the future of work will be shaped by three major overarching trends already in motion, poised to revolutionize workforces and the very nature of work.

First Trend

The first monumental trend manifests as a burgeoning embrace of technology and a surge in disruptive technologies. This includes the pervasive utilization of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and robotics within workspaces. Envisioned within this trend is a new dimension of work, unfurling within the virtual realm. It encapsulates a shifting physical distribution of the workforce and the emergence of hybrid workforce models.

Second Trend

The second grand trend converges toward a more globalized work landscape. Intertwined with the first trend, this transformation diminishes the relevance of traditional borders, forging a global fabric intertwining labor markets, services, supplies, and clientele. Yet, this global interconnection carries potential implications—ranging from the risk of pandemics to supply shortages instigated by conflicts, like the ones observed in Ukraine—consequences that we shall delve into within this book.

Third Trend

The third formidable trend perpetuates an ongoing drive for perpetual creativity and innovation in all endeavors. In contrast to past eras where market dominance bestowed a prolonged advantage, today's and tomorrow's landscape demands continuous innovation. It mandates that corporations and employees take risks, fostering the creation of innovative products and services to navigate a volatile, uncertain, complex, and agile (VUCA) world. Corporate leaders shoulder the responsibility of reengineering corporate culture to nurture greater innovation and creativity. An emphasis lies on crafting creative solutions to address the mounting global challenges threatening humanity's very existence, such as environmental and climate changes, violent conflicts, immigration, inequality, and akin predicaments.

These trends necessitate a demand for new skills in the workplace of the future. As the digital workspace diminishes the need for an on-site workforce, it concurrently amplifies the requirement for knowledge-intensive tasks. An abundance of studies underscores the necessity for a workforce adept at solving intricate problems and integrating innovative thinking into their processes. Moreover, a sophisticated level of computer and software literacy stands as a foundational prerequisite for the workforce of the future.

Within this book, we endeavor to explore these trends from multifaceted perspectives and angles. Some of our propositions are grounded partially in data and empirical evidence, while others are speculative—or creative, as we prefer to call them. After all, in envisioning a context never before experienced, we aim to incite imagination and inspiration. Ultimately, we seek to equip and educate the nascent workforce, preparing them for novel tasks and acclimating them to a set of values that may seem distant and fanciful today yet are destined to materialize into reality tomorrow.

The authors of this book collectively bring diverse backgrounds, ideas, and views about the future, united by their fervor and empathy to enhance the reader's preparedness for the evolving work landscape. In navigating complex contexts, we have endeavored to employ lucid language, introducing new terms and terminologies that encapsulate facets of the future. To facilitate comprehension of novel concepts, ample illustrations and tables have been incorporated. Each chapter concludes with a practical assignment designed to prompt reflection and transition from theoretical understanding to practical implementation or the proposal of creative solutions encompassing the various themes discussed.

One cannot overlook the geographical diversity of the authors, representing a rich tapestry of perspectives from around the globe. The collaborative effort, primarily conducted in a virtual setting, brings forth a comprehensive body of work. Gratitude is extended to a plethora of individuals, both acknowledged and unacknowledged, who have significantly contributed to this endeavor over the years. Their wisdom and expertise, reflected in co-authored articles and referenced books, have profoundly influenced the content of this book.

In acknowledging these remarkable individuals, we aspire not to inadvertently overlook any deserving contributor. Heartfelt appreciation is extended to these trailblazers—dubbed "future thinkers and future shapers"—for their invaluable assistance in shaping innovative ideas about the future. A special expression of gratitude is directed toward Elenora Elroy, Editor at The European Business Review and The European Financial Review, for generously granting us permission to repurpose articles and publications originally featured in her esteemed journals for inclusion in this book. The following collaborators and thought leaders are recognized and appreciated in alphabetical order:

• Mr. Cisullo Claudio (Switzerland)

• Dr. Eisler Riane (California, USA)

• Dr. Garti Anat (Israel)

• Prof. Kristine Kawamura (California, USA)

• Prof. Klimek Jan (Poland)

• The late Krzeminski Tomasz (Poland)

• Dr. Richley Bonnie (Ohio, USA)

• Prof. Rowinski Pawell (Poland)

• Mrs. Treveño Yolanda (Catalonia, Spain)

• Prof. Tzafrir Shay (Israel)

• Dr. Ulrich Wendy (Utah, USA)

• Prof. Ramon Valle (Andalusia, Spain)

Their diverse expertise and unwavering support have enriched the fabric of this book, enhancing its depth and breadth, and for that, we extend our deepest gratitude.