Archive · 23 Nov 2025
How the Internet Rewired Work and Lessons for AI
The internet didn't just create new jobs like we thought it would.
It also changed how we do our old jobs.
It made some jobs disappear (like travel agents) but made others more complex.
AI is expected to do the same thing.
It will automate some tasks, change how we work, and create new jobs in different areas.
The internet transformed work in unexpected ways, not just creating new jobs but also changing the nature of existing ones.
While some jobs were automated away (e.g., travel agents, meter readers), many others saw their tasks and workflows evolve.
The internet's impact was slower and more subtle than initially predicted, with most jobs becoming more complex and less routine.
AI is expected to follow a similar pattern, with routine tasks being automated first, followed by changes in workflows and job roles.
AI's impact will likely be messy, uneven, and involve both job losses and gains, with new jobs created in the 'backbone' infrastructure.
- Who
- Workers and businesses worldwide
- What
- Adapted to and were transformed by the internet and are now preparing for AI
- When
- Over the past few decades, with the internet, and continuing into the future with AI
- Where
- Worldwide, across various industries and job roles
- Why
- To increase efficiency, productivity, and to keep up with technological advancements
Techno-Optimists
Techno-Skeptics
Job Creation
Techno-Optimists
New jobs were created (e.g., social media managers, information security analysts)
Techno-Skeptics
Not as many as predicted, and some jobs were lost (e.g., travel agents, meter readers)
Job Transformation
Techno-Optimists
Existing jobs became more complex and less routine
Techno-Skeptics
Some jobs were automated away, leading to job losses
- Primary Category
- TECHNOLOGY
- Secondary Category
- Internet and AI Impact
- Tertiary Category
- Job Transformation
- Quaternary Category
- Long-term, Uneven Impact