The development of new technology has had mixed effects on employment
1. New technology has created jobs
Many foreign companies have set up assembly plants in Scotland
Cannon in Glenrothes
IBM in Greenock
HP in Bishopton
As many businesses rely on new technology a whole range of businesses has grown up in servicing and maintaining computer and electronic equipment
Scotland has become a focus for call centre employment. BSkyB have a huge call centre in Dunfermline dealing with UK-wide enquiries and creating 300 jobs
Advantage of technology are
lower costs because fewer workers are employed - this can lead to lower prices and more sales
Product quality is improved, more goods are sold
New products are developed and made leading to new jobs
2. New technology has lead to job losses
People have been replaced by machinery in production of the assembly line type. Many traditional Scottish industries eg car industry have disappeared. Where it does exist robots have replaced workers
People have been replaced by machinery in many offices: word processors and databases have lead to the need for fewer typists. Less people are employed in the newspaper industry - journalists use Desktop Publishing software, while skilled craftsmen such as platemakers and printers lost their jobs
Fewer people are required by banks as direct banking and cash machines are promoted.