Wearable technology items such as smartwatches are enhancing workplace productivity but also raise legal issues related to data privacy and discrimination. Employers must navigate regulations such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring data collected is not used to discriminate and that privacy practices are robust, write two attorneys from the CDF Labor Law firm. Full Story: JD Supra (2/21)
Recruiting & Retention
Report: Generative AI will affect jobs in high-tech regions A Brookings Institution report suggests generative AI will cause more disruption with high-skilled tech jobs than low-skilled ones, particularly in regions like Silicon Valley and Seattle. The report notes that AI will supplement tasks such as coding and data analysis rather than eliminate jobs, but this will require workers to adapt. Full Story: Computerworld (2/24)
AI reshapes jobs: balancing efficiency with creativity AI can enhance productivity and quality in tasks it is trained for, but struggles with tasks requiring original thinking. Workers need to develop key skills such as creativity and curiosity to thrive alongside AI. Full Story: Training magazine (2/14)
Benefits & Compensation
States consider premium hikes amid rising health care costs Many states are contemplating increases in health insurance premiums for public employees due to surging healthcare expenses. For instance, North Carolina is considering a premium hike for its 750,000 state health plan members for the first time in nearly 10 years, prompted by a large budget deficit. Full Story: Axios (2/24)
Eliminate bureaucracy without resorting to layoffs by following organizational design principles, which include focusing on accountability, team alignment, talent development and investments in technology, writes Josh Bersin. "Stop thinking about jobs as containers for people: think about people as skilled resources who can do many jobs," Bersin writes. Full Story: Josh Bersin blog (2/22)
SmartBreak: Question of the Day
Hiram Rhodes Revels, the first African American senator, was elected by Republicans who controlled both houses at the time. Revels took his oath of office on Feb. 25, 1870, for which state?
Finish every day and be done with it. ... You have done what you could; some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can.
