Work and Skills

In this theme, we examine what skills are needed to perform work and how the demand for skills is changing, for example due to technological developments or the green transition. In a production process, the performance of tasks leads to output in the form of products or services. Some tasks are performed by humans and other tasks by technology (e.g., robots, AI). Human tasks, bundled in occupations, and technology can complement each other, making people more productive. However, technology can also be a substitute for human tasks, causing certain work to disappear. Our research aims to get a better grip on workers’ tasks and the skills required in occupations. Due to technological changes, but also organisational changes, globalisation and the green transition, the demand for skills is changing. Therefore, we also study changes in workers’ tasks and skills over time.