In a recent LinkedIn post, Hung Lee explores the dynamic relationship between technology, economic demand, and the emergence of jobs, challenging the conventional notion of ‘job design’. Lee uses historical context to illustrate how roles are not predetermined but rather evolve in response to technological capabilities and market needs.
Lee begins by stating a core premise: “Jobs are never ‘designed’.” He elaborates on this by explaining that the requirements for roles emerge organically from the interplay of new technologies and shifting economic demands. To underscore this point, Lee draws a compelling parallel to the workforce that constructed Tower Bridge.
“The requirements emerge through the interaction of new technology and new economic demand.”
The Historical Precedent of Job Evolution
Reflecting on a visit to Tower Bridge, Hung Lee highlights historical job titles such as ‘Navvy’, ‘Lamplighter’, and ‘Stoker’. He notes that these roles existed because the technology of the time was sufficient but incomplete, necessitating human labor to bridge the gaps. This historical perspective serves as a foundation for his contemporary analysis.
“Navvy, Lamplighter, Stoker, Watchman… and many more jobs which existed because technology did enough, but did not do it all, so that human labour was required to fill the gaps.”
According to Lee, this historical pattern is highly relevant to the current landscape shaped by artificial intelligence. He posits that just as past technologies created new labor needs, AI is likely to do the same.
AI’s Impact on the Future Workforce
Hung Lee connects his historical observations directly to the advent of AI. He raises critical questions about the future of work in an AI-influenced era. As Lee puts it:
“Couldn’t help but think that we are at a similar moment today with AI.”
He further probes the potential economic implications, asking how much demand will stem from AI-native processes and how many new roles will arise to complement AI’s capabilities. Lee expresses optimism about the potential for job creation, stating his hope that “a lot” of new economic demand and subsequent jobs will emerge.
The Role of Human Labor Alongside AI
In Lee’s view, the key takeaway is that technology does not eliminate the need for human labor but rather reshapes it. The jobs of the future, much like those of the past, will likely be defined by the tasks that AI cannot perform alone. This perspective encourages a forward-looking approach to workforce development, focusing on adaptability and the unique skills humans bring to the table.
Ultimately, Hung Lee’s analysis suggests a continuous cycle of technological advancement and job evolution, emphasizing that the focus should be on understanding and adapting to these emerging needs rather than attempting to rigidly ‘design’ jobs that are inherently fluid.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Hung Lee on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on August 6, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →