Automation
By Published On: 1 August 2025

The world as we know it is being reshaped at an unprecedented rate by the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).  

From AI-driven machines that can diagnose diseases to smart factories that operate with little human intervention, we’re entering an era where digital, physical, and biological systems are converging to redefine the very fabric of work, business, and everyday life.

Understanding how the 4IR works and how businesses can adapt is essential, which is where skillME’s 4IR & Automation short course comes in. 

In this post, we’ll unpack the core of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, explore how robotisation and automated processes are driving massive change, and outline five major shifts you can expect, along with practical ways to adapt and future-proof your career.

About the Fourth Industrial Revolution

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) marks a pivotal shift in the way we interact with technology, characterised by the blurring of boundaries between the physical, digital, and biological worlds. 

Coined by Klaus Schwab, founder of the World Economic Forum, 4IR builds on the innovations of previous industrial revolutions, introducing a level of interconnectivity and robotisation never seen before.

At its core, 4IR is powered by breakthrough technologies such as: 

These innovations are transforming the way industries operate, businesses compete, and individuals live and work.

Key technologies driving 4IR

The engine of 4IR is a powerful mix of technologies that extend digital capabilities across all sectors:

  • AI and machine learning: AI is enabling machines to learn from data, recognise patterns, and make decisions with minimal human intervention. For example, AI algorithms are used in financial services for fraud detection and in healthcare for predictive diagnostics.
  • Automation and robotics: From robotic arms on automotive assembly lines to warehouse robots used by Amazon, robotisation is drastically reducing human involvement in repetitive tasks while improving precision and speed.
  • Big data and cloud computing: These technologies allow companies to gather, store, and analyse vast amounts of information in real time, enabling them to make better decisions.
  • IoT and smart devices: The IoT connects everything from refrigerators to industrial machines, enabling systems to communicate and optimise operations autonomously.

Businesses that don’t implement these technologies risk falling behind. In fact, a 2023 McKinsey Global Survey found that 55% of organisations had already adopted AI in at least one business function, demonstrating the mainstream integration of 4IR technologies.

The human-machine collaboration

Despite common fears, 4IR is not about machines replacing people, it’s about people working alongside intelligent machines. Machines have all the knowledge in the world that a human being couldn’t possibly learn in their lifetime. But AI can’t do anything without human input. 

This collaboration is giving rise to hybrid roles, where employees combine technical expertise with uniquely human abilities.

For example, customer support agents now work with AI chatbots that handle basic inquiries. This frees up time for agents to focus on more complex, human-centric issues.

While automated processes will displace 85 million jobs, they’ll also create 97 million new roles that are more adapted to the division of labour between humans and machines.

5 Things to expect from the 4IR era and how you can adapt

Here are some of the main changes to expect in the 4IR and how to adapt to them. 

1. Increased automated processes across industries

One of the most visible impacts of 4IR is the growing use of automated processes to replace repetitive and manual tasks. 

From robotic arms assembling products in factories to AI-powered chatbots handling customer queries, automated processes are streamlining operations across manufacturing, retail, finance, and beyond.

How to adapt: Focus on developing human-centred soft skills that machines can’t replicate, such as critical thinking, emotional intelligence, collaboration, and creativity. These uniquely human traits will become even more valuable in an automated world.

2. Impact on jobs and continuous demand for tech and data skills

While repetitive and manual jobs are at risk, 4IR is also ushering in new career opportunities, especially in areas like:

  • Data analysis and interpretation
  • Software development and coding
  • Cybersecurity
  • Digital marketing
  • Systems and network management

In fact, according to Gartner, 58% of employees require new skills to perform their jobs successfully. The demand for digital literacy, adaptability, and continuous learning is greater than ever. Skills once considered “optional” are now essential. 

How to adapt: The best way to build these skills is by enrolling in short courses or certifications that provide practical, up-to-date digital skills. For example, skillME offers short courses in artificial intelligence, blockchain, data analytics, cybersecurity, and other related fields.  

3. Hybrid work environments will become the norm

The pandemic accelerated a shift toward remote work, and now 4IR technologies are making hybrid work the standard for many companies worldwide. 

Hybrid work combines in-office work with remote work, creating a flexible work environment where workers only need to come into the office a couple of times a week. 

As a result, workers need to be able to work independently and use technology to effectively collaborate with their teammates, even if they aren’t in the same space. 

How to adapt: Build your ability to work independently, manage your schedule, and use digital tools effectively. Strong time management, self-motivation, and digital communication skills will be essential in this flexible new work landscape.

4. More frequent career shifts and upskilling

As mentioned earlier, with technology evolving faster than ever, jobs are constantly changing and being redefined. Unlike in the past, it has now become increasingly common for workers to transition through multiple careers in their lifetime. This requires constant upskilling and reskilling. 

For example, suppose a worker spent 10 years in retail management. After losing her job during the pandemic, she took a short online course in digital marketing and earned a Google certification. Within months, she pivoted into a new role as a remote marketing strategist, proving how upskilling can open doors to entirely new careers in the 4IR era.

How to adapt: Commit to lifelong learning. Take advantage of micro-credentials, online degrees and short courses, bootcamps, and industry workshops. Join professional communities and stay updated with trends to keep your skills relevant and future-proof.

5. Ethical and social challenges will emerge

As powerful technologies become more widespread, they also raise critical ethical concerns, from data privacy and algorithmic bias to job displacement and digital surveillance.

For example, facial recognition software has come under fire for biased results, particularly against people of colour.

How to adapt: Stay informed about digital ethics and actively participate in conversations about responsible tech use. Whether in your community or workplace, advocate for fair, transparent, and inclusive technology policies. You need to understand the social impact of tech. 

Online short courses that can help you prepare for the Fourth Industrial Revolution

Since jobs are constantly changing and being redefined, the best approach to continue upskilling is to enrol in short courses that teach specific skills on an as-needed basis. 

For example, the 4IR & Automation short course offered by skillME is a concise, self-paced online programme designed to equip professionals with a foundational knowledge of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and its associated technologies. 

Students will learn about the core components of the 4IR, including AI, robotics, IoT, and more. Plus, you’ll also learn about various robotisation tools and strategies that enhance business operations. 

You can also consider other courses that teach specific skills, such as: 

Register for 4IR & automation online short courses with skillME 

Adopting a continuous learning approach and constantly upskilling and reskilling is vital in the modern business world, which is where a 4IR & Automation course that teaches about AI, robotics, IoT, and more comes in. Also, have a look at our other IT short courses that cover various topics related to using artificial intelligence, robotics, and more to improve business processes.