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Will computers put managers out of work?

Online shopping and delivery is often run by Artificial Intelligence. But will these powerful systems gradually move into all workplaces, making managers obsolete?

When we shop online, we don’t often think about what goes on behind the scenes. Clicking β€œpay now”, sets in motion a slick, computer-controlled chain of events, that ends with a parcel arriving at your home.

These online shopping logistics are run by Artificial Intelligence, and there are plans for these systems to move from the warehouse to the wider workplace.

β€œDigital Management” systems in development are able to autonomously hire people and oversee their work on a project from beginning to end. They also have the ability to manage much larger groups of workers than their human counterparts.

But can a software boss really understand its human employees? Are managers obsolete? And are some of these systems already here?

This week on the Inquiry, we ask: will computers put managers out of work?

Presented by David Baker
Produced by Jim Frank
Editor: Richard Vadon
Technical producer: Neil Churchill
Broadcast Coordinator: Jacqui Johnson

(Image: Artificial intelligence is showing the path: exdez/Getty)

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23 minutes

Last on

Thu 10 Nov 2022 23:06GMT

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  • Thu 10 Nov 2022 08:06GMT
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