Emerging Technologies and Evolving Work Practices Impacting Employee Engagement: Automobile industry

Abstract

Purpose: The manufacturing industry has been at the cutting-edge of technology advancements, which has improved quality and profoundly altered work practises. Technology disruptions are redefining work practices, resulting in innovation and creativity driving higher productivity and performance. Man-machine collaboration is profoundly strengthening manufacturing, increasing product quality and safety features. Robots, Cobots working alongside the shopfloor act as a substitute human workforce, increasing productivity and performance   Theoretical framework: Multiple theories support employee turnover studies and the job embeddedness theory suits this study the most. JE theory clearly states that employees who feel connected to the social and professional phase within the organization are less likely to leave. Likewise, motivated and up skilled employees will tend to have better QOL and QWL.   Design/methodology/approach: The study was conducted over three months in the automobile industry, and the design adopted a mixed method approach; primary evidence was collected from the field as an interview method, and also various scholarly evidence collaborated with our study. The research design is descriptive and deductive in nature. The methodology used in the research paved the way to answer the critical research question with the help of a theory.   Findings: Adapting to new work practices results in changes to job design as employers optimize their workforces to meet the demands of the latest techniques. Implementing disruptive technologies can improve the efficiency, safety, and fulfilment of the workplace in the automobile industry. The new-age practices driven by disruptive technologies enhance skill development, productivity, and employee engagement   Research, practical & social implications: Disruptive technologies are improving the safety and quality parameters. Organizations focusing on employees' up skilling based on learning preferences and learning styles tremendously impact productivity, motivation, and morale, enhancing job satisfaction and employee retention.    Originality/value: Data collected from the field interactions derived the factual position which was tested using various statistical tool to ensure reliability and validity. Findings added to the body of knowledge further.