Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Virtual Reality, Machine Learning — the Tsunami of technology has smothered societies, cultures, economies and businesses. We are surfing on the waves of the Fourth Industrial Revolution — a revolution that is already blurring the lines between technology and the real world. It is a revolution that has transformed customer expectations, and has metamorphosed the concept of product enrichment, collaborative innovation, and organizational structures.

A McKinsey & Company report reveals that half of all existing work activities could be automated by currently existing technologies, saving some $16 trillion in wages. IDC's Worldwide Semiannual Cognitive/Artificial Intelligence Systems Spending Guide reveals that the market for cognitive/AI solutions will experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 55.1 percent over the 2016-2020 forecast period.

Now, the question in front of us awaiting our inquiry is: When technology is aiming to outrank people, how will it impact our lives or alter the way we work? Or will technology really outrank people? Will people work for technologies, not other people?

This cover story brings to you insights and perspectives of thought-leaders and industry experts on how the next wave of technology will impact our lives especially the HR.