New research has highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in reshaping key technology roles in the UK. As employers face mounting pressure to address workforce talent gaps, the findings suggest that businesses should prioritise “role redesign” rather than relying solely on external hiring.
The report by educational publishing and services firm Pearson, titled Skills Outlook: Solving the Tech Talent Gap from Within, examines the likely impact of automation and AI on five common, high-value technology jobs over the next five years. It found that UK workers in these roles could save between 5.2 and 7.8 hours per week by 2029 by adopting tools such as LLM chatbots (like ChatGPT and CoPilot) and robotic process automation (RPA).
Pearson’s analysis shows that this saved time could be redirected toward upskilling efforts. This would allow businesses to adapt to evolving technologies and close internal talent gaps without replacing current employees. The research argues that such a proactive approach enhances agility, strengthens job security and supports long-term growth.
Oliver Latham, Regional Sales Lead for EMEA at Pearson’s Enterprise Learning and Skills Business Unit, said: “In a world where Generative AI is rapidly transforming the world of work, tech leaders need to rethink and evolve skilling pathways, or risk being left with an underutilised, undervalued and unprepared workforce. By adopting a role redesign approach now, businesses can bridge talent gaps, achieve stronger growth and create the capacity they need without relying solely on external hiring.”
How Role Redesign is Reshaping Key Tech Jobs
Pearson’s modelling identified specific tasks within five job categories that are likely to be automated by 2029. It also outlined how each role might evolve as a result of AI implementation.
For systems software developers, automation could save up to 5.2 hours per week. The biggest gains are expected from RPA tools, particularly in automating tasks such as error correction and software maintenance. The role may shift toward more strategic areas such as architectural design and cross-functional collaboration.
Computer programmers may save around 6.7 hours weekly through the use of LLM chatbots. Automatable tasks include rewriting programmes and updating software packages. The future role is expected to emphasise system architecture and complex algorithm development.
For computer system engineers and architects, up to 5.2 hours could be saved with support from LLM chatbots. Routine technical guidance and troubleshooting may be automated, enabling professionals to focus more on integration planning, compliance and human-AI collaboration.
Computer system analysts may experience savings of 6.8 hours per week, also through LLM chatbots. Automatable tasks include customer support for programme malfunctions. As AI takes over these duties, the role is expected to move toward more strategic applications of data and large-scale system transformation.
Computer network architects are expected to benefit from the highest weekly time savings at 7.8 hours. RPA technologies could automate file management and project reporting. The role is likely to evolve into one focused on network innovation, cyber resilience and supporting cloud, AI and IoT developments.
Strategic Workforce Planning for the Future of Work
Pearson’s findings indicate a shift in how organisations can respond to the pressures brought by AI. Rather than replacing roles, the emphasis is on redefining them. By repurposing tasks and aligning them with strategic goals, employers may be able to unlock greater value from their existing workforce.
The report identifies not only where time will be saved but also how that time can be redeployed to support innovation, strategic thinking and long-term capacity building. This approach may support organisations looking to maintain competitiveness in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.
Pearson’s data suggests that as the adoption of AI and automation accelerates, the ability to rethink roles and redefine job content will become central to talent strategy. Employers that act now may be better positioned to adapt and grow through the ongoing digital transformation of work.
