In the first part of his presentation, Dr. Solte explained what Big Data and Analytics are about and what they are used for. The key difference from conventional data and analytics, he noted, lies in the emphasis on correlation rather than causality in the traditional sense. He then provided an overview of several results from his analysis. Big Data, he said, has significant potential to promote green and inclusive growth, but it also carries the risk of technology-induced unemployment. The number of currently 26.75 million unemployed people could, according to Dr. Solte, rise to 53.5 million. However, it would primarily be middle-class jobs that are affected, while the number of highly qualified positions is expected to increase. The major question for the future, therefore, is how to close the emerging gap in the labor market.

Following Dr. Solte’s 15-minute lecture, a discussion took place with both the audience and the other invited speakers. You can find the full presentation as a video recording here.