Preparing for post-industrial society

High technology is promoting the emergence of 'post-industrial' economies in the wealthier OECD countries, which are characterized by shifts away from heavy industry and manufacturing, towards services, high-technology industries such as software, and the cultivation of high value-added niche markets. The resulting decentralization, labour mobility, personal flexibility and higher skill levels requires a transformation of work force skills and working habits. Unfortunately, the industrial transition is occurring more rapidly than the adjustments that the labour market can make, leading to considerable structural unemployment, labour unrest and social tensions.