Future of work in Canada: a synthesis report

This report provides an assessment of the future directions of work in Canada, the economic and social forces driving these trends, and the implications for policy makers. It is argued that while global forces will have an impact on the nature of work, Canadians will be able to significantly influence their working future. The report is intended to foster a public discussion on creative responses to the challenge of change and uncertainty in the workplace. The authors review the literature on the future of work debate in Canada and critically assess three scenarios: the ‘technology not people’ scenario in which technological advances result in job losses and the 'dehumanisation' of work; the 'work not jobs' scenario also predicting technological advances but accompanied by new opportunities for greater work flexibility and a shift away from job-based employment; and, an 'almost business as usual' scenario reflecting the perspective of many governments and economists, where the present trends are seen as evolutionary and advocating the corresponding adjustment of existing public policy. The authors analyse Canadian data on employment trends, public attitudes about work, and new developments in organisations and management. The analysis reveals no predetermined way forward and the three interrelated goals of sustainable economic growth, equitable distribution of work and income, and social cohesion are suggested as a blueprint for defining a working future. The report advocates a policy agenda that will be essential to the achievement of these goals. This agenda focuses on the issues of macroeconomic policy, redistribution of work, education and training, and worker representation. Show less