D1.1 Human-Tech Skill Complementarity Conceptual Framework v1.0

TechConnect thoroughly explores the ongoing debate regarding the influence of emerging technologies on human labour and skills. It places a distinct emphasis on Human-Tech Skill Complementarity, highlighting the essential interdependence and mutual enhancement of both human and technological skills in a systemic manner. The primary goal is to deepen our understanding of the dynamic interplays between new digital technologies and human skills, generating novel and practical knowledge on this emerging topic of Human-Tech Skill Complementarity. The project brings together a multidisciplinary team and employs diverse methods, including policy analysis, systematic literature review, annual cross-sectoral industry landscape surveys, in-depth case studies in the healthcare sector and validating the findings beyond this sector via stakeholder engagement, workshops, and guidelines production. The key outcomes include the development and validation of the Human-Tech Skill Complementarity Conceptual Framework, Assessment Index, Strengthening Model, and TechConnect Stakeholder Toolkit. These outcomes reveal how new technologies such as AI and robotics affect human skills, emphasising the development and deployment of technologies that enhance individual skills and workforce capabilities. Adopting a collaborative approach, TechConnect forms a consortium with academics, industry partners, and a stakeholder engagement firm. This collaborative effort fosters partnerships with technology associations, professional groups, and government entities. Grounded in the research-informed, evidence-based and practice-driven approaches, TechConnect will make a meaningful impact on the quality of employment and competitiveness, contributing to social and economic resilience. The collective efforts of the consortium are geared towards disseminating findings and recommendations widely, with the ultimate goal of influencing policy and practice for inclusive growth in the digital landscape. This project will run over three years from October 2024 to September 2027.

As part of the TechConnect project, the goal of Work Package 1 (Conceptual framework development and landscape analysis, which runs for the main duration of the project, M1-M29) is to provide a conceptual, theoretical and empirical foundation for other WPs. WP1 includes literature review on Human-Tech Skill Complementarity; the development of a comprehensive conceptual framework on Human-Tech Skill Complementarity; and production of three annual landscape reports on Human-Tech Skill Complementarity, i.e. the continuous industry landscape analysis. The results will be fed into WP2, WP3 and WP4.

As part of Work Package 1: Conceptual Framework Development and Landscape Analysis, this document introduces Deliverable D1.1: The Human-Tech Skill Complementarity Conceptual Framework. Developed through extensive desk research on relevant theories and concepts, this deliverable explores the dynamic interplay between human and technological skills.

This report defines the novel concept of ‘Human-Tech Skill Complementarity’ and systematically examines the mechanisms underpinning the two-way interaction between human capabilities and technological advancements. It offers a comprehensive framework that captures the intricate relationships between human and technological skills, providing a foundation for fostering sustainable and impactful human-technology collaboration in organizational and societal contexts. The Human-Tech Skill Complementarity Framework clearly addresses the complexities of human-technology interactions. It serves as the theoretical cornerstone of the project, forming the basis for practical applications in Work Packages 2 and 3 (WP2 and WP3), including case studies and sectoral analysis.