Most employers in the UK believe that automation will create more jobs than it will replace in 10 years time, according to a report from UK-based Capita Resourcing.

The report, ‘Workplace More Human’, showed that 85% of the 200 business leaders questioned, agree that in 10 years, automation will help create more jobs. It also showed that the workplace is currently undergoing rapid transformation with 54% of employers already automating business processes that were once performed by people. A further 39% plan to automate more processes in the next 12 months.

Meanwhile, employees and employers view automation differently with 91% of employers stating they view automation as an opportunity while 72% expressed concern over it. Among employee concerns were loss of work (38%) and de-socialisation of the workplace (27%).

“Automation holds considerable advantages for companies and employees alike. Yet, employee fears and concerns could present a significant barrier to realising its full potential,” Jo Matkin, Managing Director at Capita Resourcing, said. “In order to achieve the perfect blend between human and machine, organisations should involve HR in their automation strategy from day one. This will help to fully understand the potential impact on the workforce and ensure that employee concerns are addressed and managed. Open communication about automation, and reassuring workers of their unique role is critical.”

“In an increasingly automated world, the million-dollar question will be how to use the efficiency gained through technology to differentiate your business. Adopting a creative approach to getting human and machine to work together is paramount. In addition, robust skills mapping will become more important in order to attract, retrain and engage the right talent for the future. Savings from efficiency should then be invested to create innovation in the workplace and to tackle future challenges. Early movers that embrace and foster a combination of creativity and technology will gain a significant competitive advantage.”