🚀 More efficiency.
💡 More automation.
⚡ More connectivity.
But also:
⚠️ More uncertainty.
⚠️ More pressure.
⚠️ More concerns about jobs, identity, and workplace culture.
At the latest «Kultur-Café: Zukunft der Arbeit», we gathered leaders from SMEs in Liechtenstein and the Rheintal to explore the challenges of digitalization, AI, and the future of work.
What emerged was enthusiasm for new tools—and, at the same time, also concerns about how digital change affects people.
Here are five tensions that defined our discussion:
1️⃣ More Productivity – But What Happens to the “Saved” Time?
↳ AI and automation allow employees to complete tasks faster.
↳ But do we use the saved time for creative, strategic work—or does it just mean more tasks, more stress, and higher expectations?
2️⃣ Digital Skills Gaps – A Divide in Companies
↳ Some employees are tech-savvy, others feel left behind.
↳ Many SMEs struggle with bridging this gap—how do we ensure everyone benefits from digitalization, not just a few?
3️⃣ Fear of Job Loss vs. New Opportunities
↳ 31% of employees in Liechtenstein fear losing their job to AI.
↳ Yet, digitalization also creates new roles and possibilities.
↳ How do we balance automation and job security?
4️⃣ The Human Element – Losing Individuality in a Digital World
↳ Personal communication is shifting to digital.
↳ Decisions are increasingly data-driven.
↳ Are we losing creativity, personal relationships, and human judgment along the way?
5️⃣ Regulation & Ethics – Are We Moving Too Fast?
↳ Businesses in Liechtenstein worry about AI, ethics, and compliance.
↳ SMEs struggle to navigate regulations while staying innovative.
How do we balance speed, responsibility, and fairness in the digital economy?
💡 Our takeaways?
→ Technology isn’t just a tool—it shapes workplace culture.
→ Digitalization must be inclusive, ethical, and people-centered.
→ We need better conversations between business, government, and employees.
🔍 What’s your perspective?
💼 For a deeper dive, download our summary of the hidden tensions of AI here: 👇
