Human obsolescence is a very serious problem in professions that involve high technical skill. The rapid development in the area of technology leads to the obsolescence of skills. Skill obsolescence, in turn, leads to human (employee) obsolescence and, in due course, ends in job loss. This problem must be addressed by all organizations. Continuous learning and gradation of knowledge is the only remedy for the problem. Both the organization (Employer) and the employee must come together to conquer the problem.
meaning of obsolescence
Obsolescence has been defined as the degree to which the organization’s professionals lack the up-to-date knowledge necessary to maintain effective performance.
Role of the organization
The organization may provide internal training, seminars, subscription to trade magazines to update the skills of the employees. If the employee is given the opportunity to develop their skills, their sense of belonging to the organization increases. The Organization also gets an up-to-date and well-equipped employee.
The role of the organization in this case begins with hiring the right person for the right job. If something goes wrong at this stage, all the efforts made by the organization to equip the employee with skills will go to waste. Job rotation helps employees gain insight into all aspects of the job. It also helps to avoid dull repetition of jobs. Senior managers should be urged to act as mentors and provide appropriate advice on adapting knowledge.
Employee role
The employee must focus on his development. He must take action on his own to update his knowledge. He must understand that learning is a continuous process. He must develop novel and creative thinking. The days have changed. It is impossible for the organization to take care of the needs of each and every employee.
Employees must develop self-confidence and must be regularly evaluated. You need to use the internet and books properly to get the latest trainings in your field.
He should set career goals that are realistic, achievable, and right for him. The employee must be interested in taking advantage of the opportunities that come their way. He must have a good and friendly relationship with his managers to get up-to-date knowledge and details of future opportunities.
To conclude, human obsolescence is not only an organizational problem but has become a social problem. Job loss suddenly leads to an emotional breakdown. It leads to suicide and the murder of family members. It is a very serious problem that needs to be addressed by both the organization and the employees. They must join hands to overcome the problem. The organization must contribute a portion of its profits to train its employees in the latest technology. The amount spent should be treated as an expense, but capitalized as you get a well-trained employee in the future. The employee must also set aside a percentage of his income to improve his knowledge level.