Impact of Digital Transformation on Workforce Equity and Fairness

Abstract

This study explores the impact of digital transformation on workforce equity and fairness by examining the experiences of employees in organizations undergoing digital change. A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured interviews to collect data from 19 participants. The participants were selected based on their involvement in digital transformation initiatives within their organizations. Data analysis was conducted using NVivo software, applying thematic analysis to identify key themes and patterns in the interview data. The research aimed to achieve theoretical saturation, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the topic. The study identified four main themes: (1) the impact of digital transformation on workforce equity, with significant disparities in access to digital resources and job distribution; (2) the effect on digital skill development, highlighting gaps in training and the need for continuous learning; (3) the influence of workplace inclusion and diversity, with challenges related to gender, cultural representation, and leadership opportunities; and (4) employee perceptions and satisfaction, which revealed mixed feelings regarding work-life balance, job security, and overall satisfaction with digital tools. The findings indicate that digital transformation has the potential to exacerbate existing inequalities in the workplace, especially for employees lacking access to digital resources or necessary skills. Digital transformation offers new opportunities for growth and efficiency but also presents challenges in terms of equity and fairness. Organizations must address disparities in digital access, provide inclusive training programs, and implement policies that promote diversity and employee well-being to ensure a fair digital workplace.