Labor market trend check: in which role are job openings expected to decline due to automation and process improvements?

Introduction / Context:
Automation, OCR, RPA, and integrated applications have transformed the nature of clerical work. Routine keystroke-intensive roles are particularly vulnerable to decline as organizations capture data at the source and automate repetitive processes. Understanding which roles are shrinking helps learners plan career paths toward higher-value activities.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Modern systems capture data via online forms, APIs, scanners, and mobile apps.
• Automation reduces the need for manual transcription from paper to digital.
• Higher-skill software roles remain in demand, albeit evolving with new technologies.

Concept / Approach:
Data-entry operators historically entered invoices, forms, and survey results. Today, e-commerce, EDI, e-invoicing, and intelligent document processing ingest data with minimal manual effort. Consequently, vacancies for dedicated data-entry positions have declined relative to roles that design, operate, and improve automated pipelines.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Industry reports over many years have noted declining demand for pure data-entry roles due to digitization and process automation, while programming and systems roles persist (though skills shift).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Computer operator: scope has evolved but not uniquely targeted like data entry.
• Application/system programmer: remain needed for building and maintaining systems.
• None: incorrect because one role is clearly declining.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming all tech roles grow equally; repetitive clerical tasks are most exposed to automation risk.

Final Answer:
data-entry operator