Hi pltodms, and deeno,
re: the effects of automation on job rolls
In my earlier reply I took measures to clarify that I was referring to intrinsic jobs (same-type jobs), not those created or engendered by offshoots of automation. This is a hugely broad topic, so I'll limit my reply here to the types of venues previously discussed.
Truck rolls are being replaced by drive-by pickups and overnight deliveries of terminal gear. The cable guy will compete with eBay and Amazon, not to mention Best Buy, for the next SetTopBox.
If a utility installs a AMI meter, it's not from altruism or a sense of green spirited benevolence (despite what their communications departments tell you), it's because they're trying to improve net operating income. And the way they do this is by cutting jobs and streamlining and improving workflow processes and field operations through automation.
When FiOS was on a roll, do you think Verizon went out and hired an army of installers who now remain on their books as liabilities? No, they went to outside contractors, in the main, who install FTTH for numerous providers, even those that compete with Verizon. It's an outsourced, plug-in society we live in today, leaning towards one that is increasingly point and click.
When the gas company sent someone to implement a smart meter in my home three years ago, it wasn't a gas company employee, it was a contractor. That was the last time I've had to admit anyone from the gas company into my home. The city, in kind, installed a wireless meter on my water main, and I wasn't even aware that they'd done it. And to suggest that there would be a need to provide a network to every home for every type of utility ignores the fact that every home is already connected to numerous networks, including the very wires over which the power company delivers electricity.
Net : Net :: Same-type jobs are eliminated, and the majority of those who are dismissed, who usually fall under the heading of limited skills categories, are left to learn new skills or face the consequences. Cross-training for other positions within the existing employ, as a prelude to, or substitute to layoffs, is something I've given a fair amount of attention to, in relation to potential employment ramifications that will befall workers in my own line of work. But we don't see very much of this today.
FAC
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