The Future of Work: A Human-centric Approach to AI, Robotics, and Cloud Computing
Oluwatosin Selesi-Aina *
University of Lagos, University Road Lagos Mainland Akoka, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria.
Nseabasi Edet Obot
University of Port Harcourt, East/West Road, PMB 5323 Choba, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Anthony Obulor Olisa
Cumberland University, 1 Cumberland Dr, Lebanon, TN 37087, United States.
Michael Olayinka Gbadebo
University of the Cumberlands, 104 Maple Drive, Williamsburg, KY 40769, United States of America.
Omobolaji Olufunmilayo Olateju
University of Ibadan, Oduduwa Road, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Oluwaseun Oladeji Olaniyi
University of the Cumberlands, 104 Maple Drive, Williamsburg, KY 40769, United States of America.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and cloud computing on the future of work, focusing on adoption trends, productivity gains, and ethical challenges. Using a mixed-method approach, data were sourced from the OECD AI Policy Observatory, Pew Research Center, and European Union Open Data Portal. Quantitative analysis included K-Means clustering of industries based on technology adoption, with high adopters like North America and Europe leading in cloud computing (65.87%), and Africa showing stronger AI adoption (63.02%). The analysis also highlighted a 14.5% productivity increase in manufacturing, but a 19.3% risk of job displacement. Sentiment analysis revealed that 75% of public sentiment on algorithmic bias was negative, correlating strongly (0.74) with reported violations. The study affirms the need for improved AI governance and stronger GDPR compliance to address ethical challenges, while prioritizing human-centric strategies that ensure inclusive and sustainable outcomes for the workforce.
Keywords: AI governance, cloud computing, workforce displacement, algorithmic bias, GDPR compliance