Abstract
Methodology: The analysis is based on over one million Swiss job postings from September to December 2024. Using text mining (keyword analysis and named entity recognition), technologies frequently mentioned in connection with future-related terms in job descriptions were identified. The study then examined in which industries these technologies are in demand to assess their cross-industry robustness and future relevance. The distribution of technologies across different industries was quantified using an entropy measure to determine robustness (i.e., breadth of relevance).
Results: The study identifies 20 technology and innovation fields that are particularly frequently mentioned in Swiss job postings in connection with future-related terms. The most important and cross-industry robust technologies are:
- Cloud Computing
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Machine Learning (ML)
- Automation
These technologies have the highest entropy and are thus relevant in many industries. Other relevant fields include Big Data, Cybersecurity, Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, Augmented/Virtual Reality, Robotics, and Fintech. Technologies such as nanotechnology or smart devices, on the other hand, show low cross-industry relevance and are mostly in demand in individual sectors.
Significance and Contribution: The study provides a data-based, objective insight into the technological priorities of the Swiss economy and complements previous, often qualitative trend studies. It shows that digital technologies in particular are considered future-relevant across industries. The methodology is useful for both researchers in innovation management and practitioners (e.g., HR, innovation managers).
