In The Future of the Professions , Richard and Daniel Susskind explain how technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and automation transforms traditional professions such as law, medicine, education, accounting and architecture. The authors’ basic argument is that professional work in most sectors will be completely transformed or replaced because knowledge will be more and more accessible in the form of systems and machines rather than human experts.
(technology helps professionals work better). Fundamentally redefined occupations (te chnology bypasses or replaces traditional roles)
Actionable advice:
Embrace technology, don’t resist it: professionals must adopt new tools (AI, machine learning, automation) and incorporate them into their work rather than fighting or fearing them. Invest in new skills: build skills that are additive to technology, such as creativity, empathy, framing problems and ethical judgement - skills machines are less likely to replicate. Explore “open knowledge” opportunities: think through how skills can be provided at scale, whether by constructing online platforms, automated advice systems, or knowledge-sharing portals. future professionals will work closely with technologists, data scientists and designers - so cross-disciplinary literacy is crucial. Prepare for interdisciplinarity: Reinvent professional education: institutions should train future professionals in technology, data literacy and innovation management alongside traditional knowledge.
Key Concepts:
Technology will “unbundle” work for professionals: instead of relying only on highly trained specialists, work will be unbundled into pieces that can be outsourced, automated or sent electronically. to systemized solutions: professions are shifting away from custom, one-on-one solutions toward mass-market, web-based and standardized solutions - e.g., web-based legal or automated tax return solutions. Transformation from customized “The Grand Bargain” is failing: professions have long had exclusive ownership of specialist knowledge in exchange for moral service. Technology is breaking this monopoly by equalizing access to expertise. New professions and areas emerging: rather than disappearing completely, professions will transform - new professions like data analysts, knowledge engineers and legal technologists will emerge to support tech- enabled professional services.
Two futures:
Better version of today's professions
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