In this blog we’ve discussed the “flat world” and the demands that a global economy is placing on businesses–including the need to collaborate and automate business processes. But here’s another compelling reason to collaborate and automate: the next generation demands it.

The cover story of PMI magazine is titled “Bridging the Gap,” and they are referring to the generation gap. Here’s the article in Project Management Institute’s magazine.

Here’s an excerpt:

While older workers may cling to the comfort of proximity, this globally aware generation views technology as a way to access a borderless, boundless marketplace. And although seniority must be respected, older generations can learn a lot from how the younger workers in this group communicate. Their ability to multitask and maintain several ongoing dialogues makes them versatile communicators, a plus for staying on top of project problems around the clock and around the world.

The next generation of workers is forcing its predecessors to make some changes–many of which sound like the same changes being brought about by globalization, dispersed workforces, and other economic factors.

• Working anytime, anywhere: They have never known a world where information was not available 24/7. So, they are more comfortable working anytime and anywhere than their more office-bound elders.
• Fewer long-term commitments. This generation doesn’t expect, and doesn’t freely offer, loyalty. Younger workers can handle more risk, so they are more likely to go where the best jobs are. They are more open to the “Hollywood Model” of workforce management we described recently.
• Wired. They are accustomed to technology and instantaneous communications. So not only are they always on and always connected, but they multi-task more effectively. They are more likely to manage their tasks and communications electronically, and don’t rely as much on face-to-face meetings.

So, the companies that benefit from the energy and innovation of the next generation will be the ones who can support and accommodate the collaborative, electronic, “always on” ways of working and communicating.

Project and Workforce Managers (especially those of earlier generations): take note. You will do well for your workforce, and your business overall, to harness younger talent by being open to these trends.